Aptos Times: January 1 2020

Family Owned For Over 29 Years • Aptos, La Selva Beach, Corralitos, Freedom & Watsonville

Times Publishing Group, Inc.

January 1 2020 • Vol 29 No. 1

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

2020 California Laws

Here is a list of the new state laws that will take effect on January 1, 2020.

Full Story page 8

Seacliff Village Park Skate Park

By Jason Hoppin On Dec. 17th, the County and several partners, including prominent local philanthropists, broke ground on a new skateable feature at Seacliff Village Neighborhood Park, which will include a reference to Aptos’ famed “cement ship.”

Made possible by generous donations from Richard

Novak and Rowland Rebele, the new, accessible skateable art feature will soon be added to the popular park, which opened in 2015 and overlooks Monterey Bay. The new skateable feature includes a scale version of the S.S. Palo Alto, and is expected to be completed in early 2020. ... continues on page 4

EcoFarm’s 40th Conference

Over 70 food and farming workshops and events await ecologically-minded farmers, ranchers, and all who support their success at the 40th EcoFarm Conference, January 22 -25, in Pacific Grove, CA. Full Story page 6

BRENT GARVEY PAINTING Quality Isn’t Expensive... It’s Priceless

• ALL WORK GUARANTEED • INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • WORKERS COMP & LIABILITY

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS License #681095

831.688.6913 | www.brentgarveypainting.com

Inc.

FEATURED BUSINESS

831• 661• 5030 hotsourceyogastudio.com

FITNESS & TRAINING

RETAIL

7960 Soquel Drive, Aptos 95003

SERVICES 831-688-1116

CUT & COLOR for $95.00 Color Touch-up Regular $130 (Long hair extra)

7970, Suite A, Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA

831.662.3362

NEW LOCATION

SPECIAL!

HAIR SALON

RESTAURANTS

NEW LOCATION

7960 Soquel Drive Aptos, CA 95003

Our focus is on you and giving the best experience possible to help you achieve your goals.

(831) 662-0886

7960 Soquel Drive, Ste. I, Aptos

www.fleetfeetaptos.com

Dance with us!

Since 1926 Instruments / Accessories / Sheet Music Sales / Rentals / Lessons 831-724-4798

musicstoreguy@earthlink.net

7960J Soquel Dr. Aptos, CA 95003

(831)684-1800

2 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

www.studioe-dance.com

7970 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

Conveniently located off Highway 1 and just outside Aptos Village, the Aptos Village Square hosts a number of local Aptos businesses.

No. 1

Volume 29

10

21

30

Table of Contents

5

Cover

Seacliff Village Park Skate Park, By Jason Hoppin

6 7 9 10 11 12 14 17 18 19 21 22 25

Community News EcoFarm’s 40th Conference: Pacific Grove Workshops to Help Ecologically-Minded Farmers and Ranchers EcoFarm Bus Tour: Organic Farming on the Central Coast California Giant Approaches Zero Waste: Company Reaching Goals Through Giving During the Holidays Banff Centre Mountain Film Fest World Tour PVWMA Board Votes to Expand Delivered Water Service Area Protecting Teens From Human Trafficking: Free Forum In Honor of January National Human Trafficking Awareness Month PVUSD Announces Two New Appointments: Director of Maintenance and Operations, Controller Approved by Board of Trustees • LEO’s Haven to Open Early 2020 Skateable Art: Seacliff Village Park Gets New Feature ‘Tis the Season to Worry About Tick-Borne Diseases Protections for Mobile Home Residents Women’s Adventure Film Tour Passwords You Should Never Use: NordPass Gives Advice on Password Hygiene For the New Year Public Input Sought About 2045 RTP

We are so grateful to be part of this amazing community, to call it “Home” and share that privilege with you as part of our life’s work in real estate.

We wish for you, and for those we care for and love, health of body and spirit, peace of mind, and kindness given and received.

We thank you so much for placing your trust in us for nearly twenty-five years.

May you be blessed in the Year to be.

Mike & Tara O'Boy

In Memoriam 5 Harry L. Jenkins: November 30, 1927 ~ October 8, 2019, By Dawn Wells 11 Genevieve Ann Race: 1921 ~ 2019

California News 8 California Laws: 2020 Updated 16 Winter Travel Tips from Caltrans

Letter to the Editor 13 Raising Environmental Awareness, Sincerely, Chris Johnson Lyons, Board Pres. Jonathan Pilch, Exec. Dir.

National News 20 Congressman Panetta Co-Introduces the End Valley Fever Now Act

831.332.3951 | 831.332.3956

oboyrealestate.com DRE# 01225575 & 01901172

Health & Fitness 23 Are You Getting All Your Vitamins? • Parkinson’s Group January Meeting

Monthly Horoscope • Page 26 – Your November Horoscope Community Calendar • Arts & Entertainment – Pages 28, 29

24 26 27

Featured Columnists What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?, By John Wilkins Bare Root Season Has Begun, By Tony Tomeo Happy New Year!: May 2020 Be as Successful and Rewarding as 2019!,

By Melanie Mow Schumacher 30 Reflections on my Sixth Year as your County Supervisor, By Zach Friend

SCCAS Featured Pet • Page 31– Beautiful Rabbit Ready For A Home

www.tpgonlinedaily.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 3

COVER STORY publisher

Patrice Edwards Camisa Composti

assistant publisher

contributing writers Camisa Composti, Jason Hoppin, Dawn Wells, John Wilkins, Tony Tomeo, Melanie Mow Schumacher, Zach Friend

layout Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson graphic artists Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson photography Michael Oppenheimer, Jim Johnson, Brad King website Michael Oppenheimer, Camisa Composti production coordinator Ryan Wilson advertising sales Don Beaumont, Teri Huckobey, Ryan Wilson Cathe Race

office coordinator

Bill Pooley, James Hudson

distribution

“Seacliff Skate Park” from page 1 “Since opening four years ago, Seacliff Village Park has become a destination for children and families from across Santa Cruz County,” Supervisor Zach Friend said. “I’m pleased to be able to work the community to bring this project here.”

Novak and Rebele are providing funding for the new feature, which is also the result of the dedicated work of Tricia Proctor and Marie Martorella, local residents who have worked tirelessly to identify a safe site where youth can skateboard and focus on the positivity of the sport.

“This project is the culmination of years of hard work on behalf of the youth of Santa Cruz County,” Proctor and Martorella said. “We’re beyond excited to see it come to fruition and look forward to seeing the project through to completion.”

Premier designers Mark and Danyel Scott of Dreamland Skateparks provided design input and overall expertise; furthermore, Dreamland has partnered with Deborah Bredy of Bredy Construction for the actual building phase. The project is being facilitated and managed as a collaborative effort between Friends of Santa Cruz County Parks, Dreamland Skateparks, Bredy Construction, Proctor and Martorella.

Times Publishing Group, Inc. 9601 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 The Times Publishing Group, Inc., publishers of the Aptos Times, a bi-monthly publication, the Capitola Times and Scotts Valley Times, each printed monthly, Coastal Weddings Magazine, Coastal Home and Garden Magazine, Aptos’ Fourth of July Parade Official Program Guide and Capitola’s Begonia Festival Official Program Guide, is owned by Patrice Edwards.

Entire contents ©2020. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the publisher’s written permission

LIFE TOOLS FOR MEN Would you like to be a: Better partner Better father • Better friend • Better man • •

PHONE: (831) 688-7549 FAX: (831) 688-7551 GENERAL E-MAIL: info@cyber-times.com Patrice Edwards: patrice@cyber-times.com Publisher’s Assistant: assistant@cyber-times.com Editor: info@cyber-times.com Opinions/Letters: editorial@cyber-times.com Calendar Listings: www.tpgonlinedaily.com Graphics Department: graphics@cyber-times.com Billing Inquiries: cathe@cyber-times.com Classified Sales: sales@cyber-times.com Production: production@cyber-times.com CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.tpgonlinedaily.com mission statement We at the Times Publishing Group, Inc. are dedicated to providing a voice for the individuals and organizations in our community while highlighting the outstanding accomplishments of our local businesses. We seek to promote healthy family values through our coverage of youth activities, school news, senior events, community groups and entertainment

“We’re overjoyed to help make this public-private project a reality,” said Mariah Roberts, executive director of Friends of Santa Cruz County Park. “This will be an incredible asset for children of all abilities throughout Santa Cruz County.”

A lifelong Capitola resident, Richard Novak founded iconic skateboard company NHS Inc. in 1972, which now employs more than 150 people locally.

Breakthrough can help!

Many men struggle with relationship issues, loss, self-worth, anger, addictions and isolation. Breakthrough works on the causes behind the challenges that affect all men.

INTRODUCTORY EVENINGS January 7th and 21st, February 18th, March 3rd, 7-9pm

4 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

To be held at: St. Philips Church in Scotts Valley 5271 Scotts Valley Drive, 95066 831.375.5441 | breakthroughformen.org

Richard is dedicated to empowering local youth through school scholarships, local non-profit organizations, and encouraging outdoor recreational activities. n ••• A longtime Aptos resident, Rowland Rebele and his wife have given back to the community in numerous ways, including the Rebele Family Shelter, UCSC’s Institute of Arts and Sciences and, most recently, funding a youth coordinator role at Episcopal Church of St. John in Aptos.

IN MEMORIAM

Harry L. Jenkins November 30, 1927 ~ October 8, 2019

Young Harry

life stories will be remembered by all. Who remembers his beloved childhood dog, Terry the Terrier, or the days he delivered ice or won a Cadillac for top Sales with American Health Studios.

Harry believed we could all be whatever we wanted to be, we just needed to do what we loved, set goals and work hard, never taking our eye off the goal. He loved vision boards and helping people make their dreams and goals come true. Harry was the man who woke up every morning with a smile on his face, throwing open the curtains while whistling a tune and then saying, it’s going to be a beautiful day no matter the weather.

Harry was born in Zepher Hills, Florida in 1927 to Mary Veatch and Harrison Jenkins. Harry and his Parents moved to California when he was a youngster. His Mom would tie trout flies during the year and each summer they would head for the Sierras where she would sell them to the local fly fishermen.

As summer wrapped up, they would decide where they would move for the next school year.

In 1943, they pulled into Santa Cruz with everything they owned stuffed into the trunk of their 1935 Ford. It was love at first sight for Harry. He knew Santa Cruz was where he wanted to stay. It was during this time that Harry met Jack LaLanne. It was told that Jack had been invited to the Civic auditorium for gym class for the high school.

Harry knew instantly that he wanted to be like Jack and there his lifetime career in the gym business began. Harry graduated from Santa Cruz High in 1946.

“Jenkins” page 10

Great Reasons to Dine at Palapas DINNER

Tues: Mahi Mahi Tacos w/Mango Salsa Fresca

Chile Verde Enchiladas de Pollo con Mole Wed: Sand Dabs w/Garlic Tomatillo Sauce

Chile Verde Enchiladas de La Cocina Fresca Chicken, Beef or Cheese

Thur: Housemade Tamales Chicken or Pork

Chile Verde Ensalada del Mar

Bring the family to Palapas for dinner Monday thru DINE FOR Thursday nights for our unique style of Mexican food and your children dine for free! *

KIDS FREE

arry Jenkins loved life. He brought joy and love to his family, friends and everyone he came in contact with. This was his mission. His laughter and joy shined brightly through his eyes.

Harry’s excitement and enthusiasm for life was contagious. His faith in God was always at the center of his life.

Harry was an eternal optimist. He never saw anything in life as a problem, only a fun challenge in which he could find a solution. He loved to wheel and deal — always buying or selling something just for the fun of it and of course to make a buck or two, if he could! Harry made life fun, no matter what.

He never complained, not even with 3 bouts of cancer. When life got tough, you could find Harry playing one of the two songs he knew on his harmonica. Always with that smile and twinkle in his eyes.

Harry loved cars and boats and anything that he could drive fast. He loved being on the water, whether he was water skiing, boating or riding his jet ski, which he rode until he was 85. He loved to dance and he and Anna always took the first dance at the wonderful spa parties!

He loved games and cheated horribly at Monopoly and of course always won!

He could always be heard saying “hey Buddy, you got a minute” where he would proceed to tell you a story or a joke, often times laughing until tears were running down his face. His childhood and

MID-WEEK SPECIALS

H

By Dawn Wells

All special entrees $16.95 All specials dine in only including Kids Dine Free offer. *Offer is good for one child’s (under 12) menu item per entree purchased from our regular menu by an adult in party. Valid Monday thru Thursday except holidays. Expires 3-26-20.

Crab and Shrimp salad

Fine Dining Mexican Style

Ocean View, Lunch & Dinner Daily, Reservations Suggested 21 Seascape Village, Aptos 831-662-9000

www.palapasrestaurant.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

EcoFarm’s 40th Conference

Pacific Grove Workshops to Help Ecologically-Minded Farmers and Ranchers

O

ver 70 food and farming workshops and events await ecologically-minded farmers, ranchers, and all who support their success at the 40th EcoFarm Conference, January 22 -25, in Pacific Grove, CA. Conference-goers will learn from leading experts on topics addressing both

micro and macro issues critical to the prosperity of small and mid-scale farmers and organic agriculture at large with topics covering healthy soils and pest management, livestock and ranching, equity and labor, policy, marketing, and more... plus several workshops presented exclusively in Spanish.

6 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

“Agriculture and growers don’t have a reputation for being sexy, but somehow EcoFarm manages to maintain a balance between cool and innovative content and more thoughtful deep dives,” said Amy Wu, an avid EcoFarm attendee.

“With engaging conversations on timely topics that resonate for all growers, such as the broad and yet very critical umbrella topic of soil health.”

Luminary keynote speakers Jonathan Lundgren and Leah Penniman will kick-off EcoFarm’s opening keynote session presenting their perspectives on the future of agriculture that is based on both scientific research and traditional knowledge.

Bob Quinn, author of the book Grain

by Grain: A Quest to Revive Ancient Wheat, Rural Jobs and Healthy Food will share his journey over the last several decades to turn his dryland Montana farm into a powerhouse of organic and regenerative agriculture.

The Successful Organic Farmers keynote session features three leading farms whose founders will share their stories and what they’ve learned along the way including Emigdio Ballon, Scott Park, and Ward & Rosie Burroughs.

The final keynote will be given by renowned “author, scientist, warrior, and mother” Dr. Vandana Shiva, who will address two paths to the future of food and farming and why ecological agriculture is our ethical, ecological and survival imperative.

“EcoFarm” page 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

EcoFarm Bus Tour: Organic Farming on the Central Coast

B

us Tour 2020 Kicks Off the 40th EcoFarm Conference. This all-day field trip goes from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on January 22 and will take you on an exploration of the following farms: ••• Lakeside Organic Gardens ick Peixoto, owner of Lakeside Organic Gardens, started farming on his own while he was a senior in high school. After 20 years in conventional, he became frustrated with the corporate structure and was looking for a smaller business plan that was committed to the health of the soil.

Starting in 1996 with 50 acres, he has expanded his acreage to 2,000 acres here in the Pajaro Valley and 1,000 acres in the Imperial Valley, farming 50 crops on 65 separate ranches. They now ship veggies throughout the USA and Canada. Visit Lakeside Organic Gardens ranch, walk the fields with Dick, and learn from the conditioned veteran in organic farming, the day-to-day workflow, cover crop tactics, IPM, and behind the scenes farm strategies.

Dick is often quoted saying, “We farm the soil and the soil grows the crop.”

You will learn why. Today, Lakeside Organic Gardens has become the largest family-owned and operated, solely organic vegetable grower/shipper in the USA.

D

JSM Organics SM Organics is a diverse, organiccertified farm in Royal Oaks. Breaking ground in 2012 with virtually no capital or hired labor, farmer Javier Zamora

J

“EcoFarm” from page 6 The event starts with all-day PreConference intensives that will take place on January 21 and January 22 including a Regenerative Agriculture Field Day at Swanton Pacific Ranch, A Permaculture Collaborative: City Repair meets Social Forestry, Organic Survival: Practical Strategies for Resistance, Resilience, and Regeneration, and Women/Womxn in Food & Agriculture: A Force With Nature. Plus an all-day farm and bus tour; Organic Farming on the Central Coast that will visit Lakeside Organic Gardens, JSM Organics, and Coastal Sun Cannabis & Coastal Moon Berry Farm with an organic lunch prepared by acclaimed chef Jim Denevan of Outstanding in the Field.

Attracting over 1,700 participants, EcoFarm Conference offers a diverse array

began planting the seeds that would eventually grow a business that now offers a wide variety of organic products on 40 acres, including close to 300 varieties of flowers.

Originally from humble farming origins in Mexico, Javier now prioritizes charitable food donations and hands-on farm education to help revitalize a sense of community that has largely diminished in the modern farming industry. JSM is a multi-faceted farm that specializes in strawberries, but also grows blackberries, apples, pears, flowers, and a variety of vegetables.

Javier and his employees are focused on providing not only a higher quality product, but also a higher quality farmerto-customer experience. This is achieved through dedication to their surrounding community and commitment to a more ethically driven sense of farm management.

Coastal Sun Cannabis & Coastal Moon Berry Farm oastal Sun Cannabis and Coastal Moon Berry Farm operate certified organic blueberry and Envirorganic Certified cannabis production in the Pajaro Valley.

The tour will walk through the many and diverse production areas, including fields, greenhouses and processing facilities.

The farms have developed a system of crop production that brings together the infrastructure of a hydroponic facility with an organic and biologically focused nutrient delivery system termed “bioponic,” referring to organic containerized

C

Photo Credit: Rodger Wasson

cultivation. Containerized and cannabis farming are becoming widespread in California.

It is no secret that allowing containerized farming to be called “organic” is highly controversial, and this important issue will be discussed.

Logistics am Earnshaw of Hedgerows Unlimited, Jo Ann Baumgartner of Wild Farm Alliance, and Richard Smith of UC Cooperative Extension will lead the tour.

••• Lunch will be a hearty natural foods meal prepared by noted chef Jim Denevan, of Outstanding In The Field in Santa Cruz, with many ingredients provided by the bus tour hosts. Morning coffee, tea, and snacks

S

will be provided, along with fruit and water during the day.

Don’t wait - This event sells out early.

Meet on the deck located behind the Hearst Social Hall at Asilomar Conference Grounds in Pacific Grove. A continental breakfast with coffee and tea will be available on the deck starting at 7 a.m. Buses will begin loading at approximately 7:30 and will leave PROMPTLY at 8 a.m.

Lodging at Asilomar is available on the night before the tour (Tuesday, January 22). n ••• Wednesday January 22 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Cost: $95 per person (includes lunch) https://www.visitasilomar.com

of offerings including an exhibitor marketplace, artisanal tastings, seed swaps, live music, an annual awards banquet, and opportunities for farmers and ranchers to develop mentorships with industry experts. Attendees can choose single or multi-day passes with packages that include locally-sourced meals and on-site lodging at Asilomar State Beach & Conference Grounds.

The non-profit organizer EcoFarm, provides scholarships for new and beginning farmers who seek to attend EcoFarm Conference at a reduced cost.

“I don’t think there’s a gathering that has inspired me more to stay the course as a farmer than this one right here,” said organic grower Thomas Broz of Live Earth Farm. “It’s so intoxicating to come to EcoFarm ... there should be a sign that says, if you attend EcoFarm, you may get addicted to farming.” n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 7

CALIFORNIA NEWS

California Laws: 2020 Updated H B ere is a list of the new state laws that will take effect on January 1, 2020.

•••

Workplace

SB 3: Minimum wage he minimum wage in California goes up to $12 an hour for workers at companies with 25 or fewer employees and to $13 an hour for workers at larger companies.

AB 5: Independent workers rimarily affecting gig (freelance) workers, this law may also apply to many more contract or independent workers in California.

Under this law, workers would be considered employees and not independent contractors if the employer controls the work, directs them in the course of their work, or if the worker’s job is part of a company’s core business.

SB 188: Hairstyles his law bans workplace and school discrimination based on a person’s natural hairstyle or hair texture, such as braids, twists and locks.

SB 1343: Sexual harassment his law requires businesses with at least five employees to provide sexual harassment training to its employees within six months of being hired and every two years after that.

T

P

T

T

SB 83: Paid family leave enefits under Paid Family Leave will increase from six weeks to eight weeks starting on July 1, 2020.

Housing

AB 1482: Rent control ommunities with no rent control laws will now be covered by statewide rent control protections. This law limits rent increases to 5% each year plus inflation, but never above 10% total.

Housing built 15 years prior, i.e., 2005, is excluded. This limit is a rolling number so the date housing is excluded will change every year.

AB 652: Religious displays his law prohibits landlords and homeowner associations from banning the display of religious items, such as menorahs or crosses, on entry doors or doorframes. The items cannot be larger than 26 inches by 12 inches.

SB 222: Housing discrimination his law expands existing law to protect veterans and military personnel against housing discrimination

C

T T

Privacy

AB 375: Online privacy he California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) gives Internet users more control over their data. Among other things, the law gives users the right to know what data is collected, the right to reject the sale of your information, and the right to delete your data.

T

8 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Marriage

SB 30: Domestic partners eterosexual couples will be able to register as domestic partners in lieu of getting married. Currently, only heterosexual couples age 62 or older are allowed to register as domestic partners because of Social Security benefits. SB 30 could help couples with combined higher incomes avoid the federal marriage tax penalty.

H

Education

SB 419: School suspensions his new law bans schools from suspending 4th to 8th grade students for disrupting school activities or defying teachers and administrators. Students in grades K-3 already have this protection.

High school students must wait until 2025 for the same benefit.

T

Healthcare

SB 104: Healthcare for undocumented immigrants he law expands the Medicaid program to include low-income adults age 25 or younger regardless of their immigration status.

AB 2119: Transgender youth ransgender youth in the foster care system will have access to genderaffirming medical services, mental health counseling, hormone therapy and surgery.

T T

Criminal Justice

SB 439: Juvenile hall inors under age 12 who commit non-violent crimes would be released to their parent or legal guardian instead of being sent to juvenile hall.

The law does not apply to minors who commit murder, rape, or great bodily harm.

M

SB 970: Human trafficking perators of motels and hotels in California are required to provide training to their staff in identifying victims of human trafficking.

O

Animals

SB 1249: Animal testing rohibits the sale of cosmetic products with ingredients that were tested on animals after January 1, 2020. The law does not affect products sold globally where animal testing is required by law.

AB 1762: Dog areas he California Department of Parks and Recreation is required to establish a comprehensive list of state parks by July 1, 2020 that allow dogs, including the specific areas that allow dogs and the total miles of trails that are open to dogs.

P

T

Wildfires

SB 167: Public safety power shutoffs tilities such as PG&E are required to devise plans on reducing the negative impact of planned power shutoffs to first responders and people with disabilities.

AB 247: Tree trimming ives the California Public Utilities Commission more oversight over tree trimming efforts by utilities by requiring power companies to submit timely reports on their brush and tree trimming work.

SB 209: Wildfire warning center stablishes a wildfire-warning center to broaden the state’s ability to predict and prepare for wildfire. The center would rely on a statewide network of automated weather stations and fire detection cameras. n

U G E

COMMUNITY NEWS

California Giant Approaches Zero Waste

Company Reaching Goals Through Giving During the Holidays WATSONVILLE — California Giant is rapidly approaching their Zero Waste Certification goal thanks to staff members making a special delivery to one local school in Salinas this week.

The California Giant Food Safety Team loaded up their vehicles this week with office supplies that were no longer in use or needed at their offices and donated them to Creekside Elementary School in Salinas to help support the school needs rather than sending over 400 pounds of goods to the local landfill.

The list of items included floor mats, file folders, office chairs and assorted electronics. The school had just laid new carpet in several areas of the school, so the office floor mats were on the list of the many items they were planning to purchase, making this a timely gift.

California Giant has been on a sustainability journey for over a year and

California Giant Food Safety Coordinator Michelle Silva joins Creekside Elementary School Principal Jose Juan Urquizo are in a good mood as the supplies are delivered.

continues to recognize many cost savings along the way. As the company finds they no longer need filing cabinets, folders, storage units and paper, they look at eliminating items differently today. With each action, the staff considers the potential of reuse, reduce and recycle. In this instance the corporate offices are lightening their load, considering the environment and serving the community at the same time.

Reducing and recycling are very important in achieving Zero Waste, but reusing is also a key component, and California Giant is currently at 90% diversion by eliminating plastic cups, utensils, and dishes at the office, converting hauling containers to be more efficient, becoming paperless and repurposing supplies or donating them to others in the community.

In fact, all company trash cans will be donated next week since staff no longer has them under their desks.

“We have three pillars at California Giant focused on sustainability; people, planet and profit. We also have three areas of focus where we are implementing these pillars. We have an on-farm pilot program approaching Sustainably Grown Certification, our Corporate Offices are approaching True Zero Waste Certification, and we are conducting an extensive assessment and investment in our cooling operation to help realize greater energy efficiencies”, says Eric Valenzuela, Director of Food Safety and Sustainability.

“We are extremely pleased with the support we are receiving every day by staff and our grower community and continue

Unloading office supplies

to be inspired by each step closer to certification” adds Valenzuela. n ••• California Giant Berry Farms is expecting

to see True Zero Waste certification in Spring 2020 for the corporate offices and Sustainably Grown certification on farm with grower participants.

Plenty of Free Customer Parking

Wilder Associates Inc.

Yoga Within

Property Management Specialists

Exploring the Mind-Body Connection

662-0291

687-0818

Kumon Math & Reading Center

Joy of Movement Pilates & Gyrotonic®

Learning for the Long Run

345-8377

Warmboard Radiant Subfloor

Simply Smarter Radiant Heat

More Zest for Life

688-8077

Epicenter Cycling

Trek Bicycles for All Types of Riders

685-9275

662-8100

Village Liquors

Dentistry for Animals

688-5691

768-7148

For All Your Beverage Needs

Dr. Judy Force, DVM

California Giant Food Safety Coordinator Michelle Silva and Creekside Elementary School head janitor Joe work together to unload new office supplies

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 9

COMMUNITY NEWS

Banff Centre Mountain Film Fest World Tour G

et off the beaten path and explore the edge of believable with exhilarating stories from the 44thBanff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival, coming to the Rio Theatre February 20 – 23 at 7 pm (4 Shows/2 Programs).

Stand on the highest peaks, paddle through the coldest waters, and be a part of the gripping adventures waiting for you in this year’s Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour.

Be moved. Be inspired. Don’t miss out. Reserve your tickets today.

This stop on the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour is hosted by UC Santa Cruz Recreation Department. Tickets on sale now at brownpapertickets.com or in person at the Bicycle Trip (1001 Soquel Ave. SC) cash only please. n ••• For more info, visit recreation.ucsc.edu.

Gone Tomorrow • Mike Wilkinson

“Jenkins” from page 5 Harry met his wife, Anna, at a small fitness gym in San Jose, California.

Together they had a dream and vision which became reality. That dream was to own health clubs and help people discover how fitness could create a higher quality of life. They had an opportunity at owning their first health club in Southern California in a small town called La Mirada.

There they founded Adam and Eve Health Clubs. They provided a place where members loved to come and work out and share friendships with other members and staff. Their success was built on offering the highest quality of service, a variety of facilities and most importantly, an atmo-

February 20 - 23 at the Rio Theatre

sphere full of happiness and laughter. They realized member’s love being recognized by friendly staff when they came to work out.

In 1969 Harry and Anna sold their clubs to come back to Santa Cruz, the place that captured his heart so many years before. They founded Spa Fitness Centers in 1973, building their first spa on 41st Avenue where Safeway is now located. Two years later they opened another Spa location on Bay Avenue.

After 12 years of growth they purchased the property at 1100 41st Avenue and built a 25,000 square foot multi service health facility. This location opened its doors in 1985. In 1987, they took over the former Green valley Ath-

Harry and Anna early in their life together 10 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Bayandalai — Lord of the Taiga

Into The Canyon • Pete McBride

letic Club in Watsonville. In 1992, Harry and Anna decided to seize the opportunity to expand their 41st Avenue location. They took over a 9,000 square foot building in the Begonia Plaza and developed it into a women’s fitness facility and free weight facility.

Harry and Anna continued to work until 2011. They sold their business to In-Shape Health Clubs.

He loved each and every day he worked, not even wanting to retire!

Harry is survived by his wife, Anna, and six beautiful daughters: Carol DeLange (John), Geri Bridston (Jon), Laurie Jenkins, Jennifer Jenkins (Sammy), Stephanie Jenkins, Toni Jones

Harry Jenkins with his wife, Anna

Harry with Jack LaLanne (left)

(Bob). He is also survived by nine grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and one more on the way. The grandchildren are: Joy, Matt and James DeLange; Rachael, Josh, and Noel Bridston; Dillon Jenkins; and Austin and Gunner Casey.

His family would like to express deep gratitude to Carl Towly, Harry’s business partner for the years of joy, happiness and adventures they shared together. Carl was truly like a Son to Harry.

They also would like to thank Clint Galange, family caregivers, Hospice, Twin Lakes Church, Spa Fitness Centers and long-term employees “Spa Family” and Dawn Wells, a great friend and personal assistant. n ••• There will be a memorial celebration held at Twin Lakes Church, Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020 at 2 p.m. The public is invited.

IN MEMORIAM

Genevieve Ann Race G

“Dependable Service, Affordable Quality”

1921 ~ 2019

enevieve Ann Race passed away peacefully on December 10, 2019, surrounded by her family.

She was born Genevieve Ann Triplett on May 12, 1921, to Doris (Whitmore) and Stanley Triplett in Modesto. She was the oldest of five children.

In her early years the family lived in Ceres, CA, and later relocated to Sycamore St. in Modesto. Genevieve graduated from Modesto High School and attended The College of Pacifica in Stockton, majoring in Art and Design.

On July 22, 1944, in Las Vegas, Genevieve married Richard Race, a First Lieutenant and pilot in the Army Air Corp. During his service they lived in Victorville, CA, and Laredo, Texas.

In early 1946 they moved back to Modesto where they started their family.

Then, following Richard’s transfer with the U.S.D.A. (United States Department of Agriculture) in July, 1963, they settled in

Aptos with their three sons.

Genevieve enjoyed traveling around Europe, shopping for the latest fashion, playing Bridge with friends, family picnics, listening to the radio, and was an avid fan of Walley’s Swing Band, the San Francisco 49ers, and the San Francisco Giants. She also cherished her summer trips to the family home in Alpine County.

We would like to express our gratitude to Hospice, her amazing caregivers at home, and the wonderful staff at De Un Amor in Corralitos.

Genevieve is survived by three sons; Richard Race of Yerington, Nevada, John Race (Cathe) of Aptos, Charles Race (JoAnna) of La Selva Beach; grandson Jonathan Race (Shana) of Los Angeles; sister-in-law Nancy Triplett of Thermal, CA; and 7 nephews and 3 nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and grandson, Michael. n

COMMUNITY NEWS PVWMA Board Votes to Expand Delivered Water Service Area

WATSONVILLE — On Wednesday, December 18, 2019, the PV Water Board of Directors voted unanimously to expand the service area of its water supply facilities into an area impacted by seawater intrusion.

The F-Pipeline Project (Project) will construct pipelines and appurtances to provide supplemental* water service to approximately 700 acres of coastal farmland on the seaward side of San Andreas Road.

Work is to be completed in 2020. The

purpose of the Project is to further reduce groundwater pumping to halt seawater intrusion and groundwater overdraft while keeping agriculture viable in the Pajaro Valley.

Research published by Stanford University shows that the use of the Agency’s supplemental water supplies as an alternative to groundwater pumping has reduced salinity in coastal groundwater.

“PVWMA” page 13

SPECIALIZING IN

WINTER SPECIAL

Residential Repaints & If we paint your interior and/or Custom Homes exterior by January 31, 2020 Homeowners Associations we will buy the paint.

Property Managers

ORTHODONTICS NANCY M. LEUNG, D.D.S., M.S.

Specialist in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics

Now Accepting New Patients!

Initial Exam Complimentary Aptos Office

9515 Soquel Drive, Ste: 103 Aptos, CA 95003 831-685-2800 Conveniently located next to Aptos Junior High

Also in Watsonville 56 Penny Lane, Ste: B Watsonville, CA 95076 831-722-5022

www.SmileCrewOrtho.com

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

5,000 YEARS Of CIVILIzATION REbORN

“I have never seen anything like it in my life.

It is from the soul… It is like the show has connected Earth to Heaven.”

—Dr. PK Mahanandia, painter, Odisha’s cultural ambassador to Sweden

Dec 20, 2019–FeB 2, 2020

San FranciSco | San JoSe | Berkeley New Year promo code: tPg20 for savings on San Francisco shows (limited-time offer) Free round-trip BART shuttle provided for all SF shows. Picks up at 30 Grove St, SF (Civic Center/UN Plaza Station SF Opera House).

e-tickets & e-giFt carDs availaBle

shenYun.com/ca | 888.633.6999

Shen Yun Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization based in New York.

ALL-NEW SHOW WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA 12 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Protecting Teens From Human Trafficking

Free Forum In Honor of January National Human Trafficking Awareness Month

S

elling, trafficking, torturing and terrorizing human beings for money is what human traffickers do every day around the world.

California is home to three of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s 13 highest child sex trafficking areas in the nation. They are San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. The State also has the highest reported cases of human trafficking in the nation—almost double that of any other state.

Locally, a Needs Assessment conducted by three Central Coast Child Welfare Agencies (Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey) identified 91 children and minor teens who were sex trafficked from 2015-to-2016, and found that another 600 more were at risk. Based on interviews with survivors, investigators found that traffickers have a common circuit.

“They move their victims from city-tocity to avoid law enforcement, and to make it more challenging for a victim to find a safe or easy way to leave,” said Carmel Jud, founder and executive director of Rising International, an organization that provides a platform of training and coaching to economically-vulnerable individuals, primarily women surviving extreme poverty, gender-based violence, homelessness and human trafficking.

While victims may be trafficked in major cities, they are recruited everywhere and areas with high levels of drug addiction, poverty and homelessness are even more at risk, according to Catie Hart, a human trafficking survivor who will be the keynote speaker at the #End Human Trafficking forum set for January 18 at Twin Lakes Catie Hart Church, 2701Cabrillo College Drive, at 11:30 a.m. The forum is free and open to the public. January is National Human Trafficking Awareness month.

“But Pimps target areas where people are vulnerable, which can happen from bullying, divorce, etc.,” Hart added. “Vulnerability is a part of the human existence, and traffickers exploit that.”

Co-sponsored by the Santa Cruz

Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) and Soroptimist International of Capitola-by-the-Sea (SICapitola), it will also feature experts from the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s office, and other organizations dedicated to ending human trafficking.

Supporters of the event from both Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties include: • Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties • Rising International • Dress a Girl Around the World • Santa Cruz County Office of Education • Santa Cruz County Office of the District Attorney • Rape Crisis Center of Monterey County “The forum is designed to educate parents, grandparents, PTA members and others who work with teens,” said Kit Hein, AAUW president. “It will be a reality-based program that will give everyone tools to recognize how traffickers target and groom their victims.”

Hart was trafficked for seven years by a man she was conned to believe was her boyfriend when she was just 18 and had recently moved from Colorado to San Francisco. But his plan, from the beginning, was to abuse and exploit her. It began when he accused her of using him and since he had been taking care of her, he said it was time she repaid him. He said if she loved him, she would be happy to get a job at a strip club in the Bay area.

From there, her mistreatment and trafficking escalated. He began torturing her by depriving her of sleep and threatening to kill her if she tried to escape. She feared for her life every day and would hide out and sleep in a closet in an attempt to get her brain back.

Eventually, a 50-year-old woman who was nanny to the trafficker’s three children from a marriage in which he also trafficked his then wife, recognized the symptoms and helped her escape.

Since then, she has spent many years in therapy, has suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other side effects.

“Human Trafficking” page 17

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Raising Environmental Awareness s a friend of the Wetlands Watch, you know the importance of environmental education. As we witness the escalating impacts of global climate change, we believe we must bring this issue to the forefront of our efforts in 2020.

Through our year-end appeal we are asking you to support Wetlands Action for Climate Transformation (Wetlands ACT), a year-long initiative of dynamic climate education and transformative local action to increase climate awareness, resilience, and sustainability in our community.

So far, we have raised $46,000 toward our year-end matching fund goal of $66,400.

If you have already made a gift of support, thank you! You can help even

Waterwise Plants for California’s Mediterranean Climate

A

• Diverse and unusual plant selections • Gift Certificates • 2 Acre Display & Sculpture Garden • Waterwise Garden • Garden/Gift Shop Consultation & Design more by forwarding this email to those in your circle who may wish to join us.

If you have not yet responded, please do so now using the return envelope you received by mail, or securely online at our donation page here. You can also read more about the impact of this work here.

We hope you believe as we do that this need is urgent. We can’t undo the damage that has been done, but together we can make a difference by preparing ourselves and our young people to meet the climate challenges the future will bring.

Sincerely, Chris Johnson Lyons, Board Pres. Jonathan Pilch, Exec. Dir.

Open daily 9 - 5:30 (4:30 Nov-Feb) • 2660 E. Lake Ave. Watsonville, CA 95076 Family owned & operated. • 831-728-2532 • sierraazul.com

Locally Ownedd! and Operate “PVWMA” from page 11 “With $3 million in grant funds provided by the Department of Water Resources, this Project is a win for the Pajaro Valley,” said Board Chair, Amy Newell. She continued, “PV Water’s staff worked relentlessly to acquire and use the available grant funds for the benefit of the Valley. The Project continues moving PV Water toward its goals of preserving agriculture while achieving sustainable groundwater resources.”

The Project will be partially funded through an Integrated Regional Water Management Drought Emergency Grant from Proposition 84 Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2006 issued through the California Department of Water Resources.

Approximately $3.4 million in grant funds are available for the design and construction of the F-Pipeline Project, from a combined balance of the $3.0 million transfer and the balance remaining from the original PV Water grant allocation.

ommunity for serving The c years over 30

“With $3 million in grant funds provided by the Department of Water Resources, this Project is a win for the Pajaro Valley.”

— Amy Newell, PVWMA Board Chair

The Pajaro Valley Water Management Agency (PV Water) is a state-chartered water management district formed to efficiently and economically manage existing and supplemental water supplies in order to prevent further increase in, and to accomplish continuing reduction of, longterm overdraft.

The agency also works to provide and ensure sufficient water supplies for present and future anticipated needs within its boundaries, generally the greater coastal Pajaro Valley. n ••• For more information, visit www.pvwater. org or www.facebook.com/PajaroValleyWater. * Supplemental water is composed of recycled water, water from managed aquifer recharge and recovery facilities, and blend wells.

LOWEST

PRICES ON NAME BRANDS www.bigotires.com

Proud Contributors to:

6 Months No Interest. **On Approved Credit. Ask for details.

**Minimum purchase and monthly payment required on credit.

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 13

COMMUNITY NEWS

PVUSD Announces Two New Appointments

Director of Maintenance and Operations, Controller Approved by Board of Trustees WATSONVILLE — At the most recent Pajaro Valley Unified School District’s Board of Trustees meeting, staff was pleased to announce appointments for two critical positions Mr. Richard Reid as Director of Maintenance and Operations and of Ms. Priscilla Sanchez as Controller.

••• r. Reid brings to PVUSD a wide breadth of experience in maintenance, operations and facilities. He comes to the District from the Santa Clara County Office of Education where he built his career for 19 years in the maintenance and operations field.

Mr. Reid directed the activities and operations of the Walden West Center; directed the staff in the maintenance and operations department; developed bids; supervised the construction of two playgrounds; and organized office

M

Life is made of extraordinary moments...

MAKE YOURS with Our 30-minute circuit and caring community help build strength, improve endurance, and increase flexibility so you can live the life you deserve.

Find your Curves Moment and live Curves Strong!

JOIN FOR

1

$

*

WITH ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

Locally Owned and Operated

7000 Soquel Dr Aptos, CA 95003 831.688.2348 Franchise opportunities available: Curves.com/BuyCurves *Monthly membership fees also required and vary by location. Offer based on first visit enrollment for a 12-month recurring billing fitness membership. Valid at participating locations only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. No cash value.

Offer expires 2/29/20. Club Instructions: Select 2020Join98

© 2020 Curves. All Rights Reserved

He lives in Aptos, has two students ating best practices to improve internal attending schools in our District and efficiencies. credits his daughter for encouraging him Ms. Sanchez holds a BA in Economics apply and use his expertise in making with a minor in Business Administration PVUSD a greater place to come to school. from the University of California, Berkeley.

He looks forward to Ms. Sanchez has broad expeserving his community rience training employees in and continuing the good implementation of business work on improving Dissystems. trict facilities.

She has shared her We are proud to expertise with employees welcome Mr. Reid to in the continental United our District as the new States as well as Mexico and Director, Maintenance and France. It is exciting to see Operations. the success of Watsonville ••• High School graduate Ms. s. Sanchez brings Sanchez. to the Pajaro ••• Valley Unified School PVSUD looks forward Priscilla Sanchez District many years of to working with former experience implementing systems, student, Ms. Sanchez, and welcomes Mr. developing process workflows and cre- Reid to our community of dedicated staff. n

M Richard Reid

moves, classroom moves and repairs to equipment and buildings.

LEO’s Haven to Open Early 2020

A

smile says it all! A few weeks ago, Oliver Potts had a chance to visit LEO’s Haven. Due to your support and the support of our wonderful Santa Cruz County community, LEO’s Haven and Chanticleer County Park is slated to open early 2020.

Please stay tuned for opening day news coming from County Park Friends!

As the Santa Cruz Playground Project Playground Project volunteers prepare to successfully ride off into the sunset, Friends is stepping up to the plate to continue the vision of inclusion for our community.

Tricia Potts will join County Park Friends as Program Director. Tricia spent six years heading up the effort to create a groundbreaking public-private partnership with the County of Santa Cruz to build LEO’s Haven at Chanticleer County Park, the county’s first fully inclusive playground for children of all abilities.

“Tricia brings incredible drive, clarity and experience to our work.

Her personal dream led to the LEO’s Haven Inclusive Playground, and we are humbled and excited to continue

14 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

collaborating for our community.” said Mariah Roberts, Executive Director of County Park Friends.

As one of Potts’ first actions, she has launched the pilot program of “Together, We Are Able,” a social inclusion education program designed to bring awareness and understanding to children of all abilities, This groundbreaking program, which has already reached 45,000 students in the LA area through Friends’ non-profit partner, Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration, is a vital

part of breaking down bias and bullying towards children with disabilities while teaching all children needed social skills to interact and build connections with each other.

The program will consist of in-class conversations and activities partnered with a field trip to LEO’s Haven where children of all abilities will be partnered together and given the opportunity to positively connect through the vehicle of play.

“LEO’s Haven” page 18

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 15

CALIFORNIA NEWS

Winter Travel Tips from Caltrans SACRAMENTO — The winter season is upon us, and the snowy and rainy conditions can make for challenging travel as family, friends, food and festive occasions pull Californians all over the state.

“As winter settles in, Californians will start to see a whole new set of extreme conditions,” said Caltrans’ Director Toks Omishakin. “Please take care out there on the roads, don’t crowd the plows, have patience, give yourself more travel time, and know that we’re hard at work

PREGNANT MARE RESCUE PROJECT Beautiful Super Sweet Gelding 7 Months Old. Available for Adoption.

Contact: Lynn@marerescue.org

to clear whatever may be standing in your way.”

Below are some recommended actions you can take to reduce the risks to you and your loved ones on the highways. Drivers must use their best judgment in all types of weather.

Know Before You Go efore traveling, Caltrans recommends checking weather and road conditions.

Caltrans QuickMap is an online resource with real-time traffic flow information, chain control alerts, and closure information.

It is available at http://quickmap.dot. ca.gov/ or you can download it as an app for your phone from Google and Apple.

Motorists can also call 511 or the Caltrans Highway Information Network at 1-800-427ROAD (7623) for travel information.

B

Winter Driving Tips • Be patient.

• Give yourself extra time to travel, conditions can add travel time.

• Reduce your speed to match driving conditions and allow more time to reach your destination. Know that bridges and ramps may be more slippery than the roadway.

• Keep your electric vehicle batteries charged and your fuel tank full. Bad weather may cause long delays or closures.

• Turn on your headlights to see and be seen. Be observant and maintain a safe distance behind snow removal equipment. Do not crowd the plow. Do not pass snow plows unless directed to do so by law enforcement or emergency public service personnel.

• If a traffic signal is out, treat as a stop sign, come to a complete stop, look both ways, and proceed with caution.

• When driving in fog, reduce your speed and use fog lights — makes and models vary. Stay to the right along the white edge line and never stop in the road. If visibility is not adequate, pull off of the roadway when safe to do so.

• Do not drive through flooded areas.

Safely turn around and find another route.

• If you start sliding on snow or ice, slowly take your foot off the gas pedal and steer in the direction you wish to travel. Do not lock your brakes — pump the brakes if needed or apply steady pressure if your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes.

• Don’t use cruise control.

• Avoid in-car distractions while driving.

• If you are stalled, activate your hazard signals and stay with your vehicle. Conserve fuel by periodically turning your engine on and off while maintaining

•

•

• •

warmth, but be aware of possible exhaust and carbon monoxide issues.

If you approach an emergency, maintenance, or any other public service vehicle stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights, move over if safe to do so, or slow down.

Winterize your vehicle. Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, heater/ defroster, and exhaust system are in good working order. Make sure fluids are topped-off, especially windshield washer fluid.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated and always carry tire chains, even if you think your all-wheel drive car is capable.

Pack an emergency kit in your vehicle with the following items: flashlight, blankets, extra clothing, water, snacks, towel, gloves, ice scraper, shovel, broom, sand, and carry a spare key on your person in case you lock yourself out of your vehicle.

“Travel Tips” page 18

WRIGLEY

“Foal of the Month”

CENTURY 21 SANDCASTLE REALTY PregnantMareRescue.org

408.540.8568 Ein 26-0484620

Continuing the same friendly and professional service of over 40 years. Come visit us at our new location!

29 Rancho Del Mar Aptos, CA 95003 • (831) 688-1933 • c21sandcastle.com

16 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

Skateable Art

Seacliff Village Park Gets New Feature

T

he County of Santa Cruz is pleased to announce a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks, local philanthropists, Friends of Santa Cruz County Parks and the community to expand recreational opportunities at Seacliff Village Neighborhood Park.

Made possible by generous donations from Richard Novak and Rowland Rebele, a new, accessible skateable art feature will soon be added to the popular park, which opened in 2015 and overlooks Monterey Bay. The new skateable feature includes references to Aptos history, including the S.S. Palo Alto, Aptos’ famed “cement ship.”

“Since opening four years ago, Seacliff Village Park has become a destination for children and families from across Santa Cruz County,” Supervisor Zach Friend said. “I’m pleased to be able to work the community to bring this project here.”

Novak and Rebele are providing funding

for the new feature, which is also the result of the dedicated work of Tricia Proctor and Marie Martorella, local residents who have worked tirelessly to identify a safe, accessible site where youth can skateboard and focus on the positivity of the sport.

“This project is the culmination of years of hard work on behalf of the youth of Santa Cruz County,” Proctor and Martorella said.

“We’re beyond excited to see it come to fruition and look forward to seeing the project through to completion.” n ••• Premier designers Mark and Danyel Scott of Dreamland Skateparks provided design input and overall expertise; furthermore, Dreamland has partnered with Deborah Bredy of Bredy Construction for the actual building phase. The project is being facilitated and managed as a collaborative effort between Friends of Santa Cruz County Parks, Dreamland Skateparks, Bredy Construction, Proctor and Martorella.

Your Local Full Service Jeweler Since 1969 Custom Wedding Rings | Fine Gemstones | Antique & Estate Jewelry Goldsmiths & Watchmakers on Site | Insurance Appraisals

We buy GOLD, Antique & Estate Jewelry Aptos Center Carmel by the Sea 7552 Soquel Drive Ocean & Mission 831-688-2799 831-624-5621 www.AreiasJewelers.com

Celebrating 25 Years of College Preparatory Excellence.

JOIN US AT OUR

OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 25TH AT 1PM “Human Trafficking” from page 12 In spite of that, she went back to school, graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and has since dedicated her life to helping trafficked survivors.

Over the years she has been a consultant to 40 child-welfare agencies across the state, developed an Online Trauma Bonding Course for University of California, Davis and an anti-trafficking Curriculum for the California Department of Social Services. In addition, she is currently working with two-dozen foster youth who have either been identified or are high-risk teens. She is also training survivors to be software professionals at AnnieCannons, a non-profit designed to train trafficking victims in software development.

For several years, Hart worked with the San Francisco Police Department’s Special Victims Unit where she was assigned to monitor phone calls between incarcerated traffickers and

the victims they continued to control, even from jail.

In the conversations, the traffickers all sounded alike and were consistent in how they manipulated and tricked their victims to keep them under control, which is common in sex trafficking and is a type of psychological brainwashing.

She believes that law enforcement can and must develop a psychological profile of traffickers—as they have done with serial killers—if there is ever going to be any success in ending the exploitation.

At the forum, she hopes to communicate to parents and teachers the importance of letting their children know it is safe to talk about what may be happening to them, and to stop blaming victims when they begin their recovery and to understand how manipulation and trickery work to destroy the victim’s ability to resist and escape their captors.

“I think I would like to help people see this as a human issue and get rid of the stigma of it for the victims,” she said. n

Learn about the opportunities awaiting your student at Kirby School at our Open House on January 25th. Ask us about our Tuition Assistance Program.

We are commited to making Kirby School affordable and Kirby School offered over $1M in assistance in 2019-2020. RSVP at 425 Encinal Street kirby.org/visit or email admissions@kirby.org.

Santa Cruz, CA 95060

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 17

COMMUNITY NEWS

‘Tis the Season to Worry About Tick-Borne Diseases

SANTA CRUZ — Officials at Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control (SCCMVC) remind residents that winter is the season for the western black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus). This tick is the primary vector of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses in Santa Cruz County.

“Winter is a time of high adult tick activity in our coastal hills and residents should be aware when spending time outdoors”, says SCCMVC manager Paul Binding.

Results from the county’s 2018/2019 tick-borne disease surveillance program indicate that approximately 2% of adult Western black-legged ticks tested are

“Bullseye” rash of a patient infected with Lyme disease. Note that this rash does not always occur when someone is infected—it is important to look out for flu-like symptoms and check yourself for ticks.

infected with the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease. This is consistent with previous years’ data from Santa Cruz County.

In 2019, there have been 12 reported cases of Lyme disease in Santa Cruz County so far. The annual average is also twelve.

The risk of being bitten by ticks may be reduced with the following precautions: • Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.

• Walk in the center of trails and avoid logs, tree trunks, trail margins, brush and tall grass.

• Shower and thoroughly check your entire body for ticks after time outdoors. Parents should examine their children, especially on the scalp and hairline.

• Keep your pets on trails as well, and check and remove ticks after time outdoors.

• Use EPA-registered repellent for use against ticks; always follow label directions. Products with a concentration of 20% DEET or higher, and/ or treating clothes and shoes with permethrin before entering tick habitat are recommended.

• Launder clothes (and dry on high

heat) soon after activity in tick habitat.

Removing a tick shortly after it attaches (less than 24 hours) can prevent transmission of Lyme diseases and other tick-borne diseases.

To reduce the possibility of infection, remove attached ticks as soon as possible.

Gently and firmly grasp the tick close to the head and pull it straight out, preferably with fine-pointed tweezers. Save the tick for identification. Ticks should be kept alive by placing the tick into a sealable bag or container with a moist cotton ball in a refrigerator or cooler. The person removing the tick should wash their hands before and after removal and apply antiseptic to the bite area. Insecticides, Vaseline, lighted matches or gasoline should not be used to remove ticks because these techniques are ineffective or unsafe.

Consult your healthcare provider if you have been bitten by a tick or were in an area where ticks occur and are concerned about Lyme disease. Painful redness that occurs less than 24 hours after a tick bite and does not expand is likely a local allergic reaction to the tick bite.

Early Lyme disease can include flulike symptoms and often an expanding,

“LEO’s Haven” from page 14 Potts and her team have already conducted an initial inclusion session with students at Valencia Elementary as well as held a teacher training in-service which included staff from the Live Oak School District, Santa Cruz Health Centers, County Office of Education and County Park Department Recreation Department.

Grant partners for the “Together, We Are Able” pilot program include the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, host of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am; the Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation; the Reiter Family Foundation; Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration; and Kaiser Permanente.

County Park Friends is currently raising additional funding for “Together, We Are Able.” Anyone who wishes to make an end of year tax-deductible donation to support this vital program please contact Tricia Potts at tricia.potts@countyparkfriends.org. n ••• For more information: www.county parkfriends.org 18 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Photo courtesy of CDPH)

Western black-legged ticks (from left): nymph, adult male, adult female. painless rash. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics and most patients recover without complications, particularly when the disease is diagnosed early.

If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to arthritis and in some cases serious nervous system problems. n ••• Visit the Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control offices for more information on ticks and tick-borne diseases, or the California Department of Public Health at www.cdph. ca.gov.

••• Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control 870 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz Weekdays: 8am-3pm. • (831) 454-2590 Pesthelp@agdept.com • www.agdept.com

“Travel Tips” from page 16 Chain Control Information ll vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires, should carry chains when traveling in snowy weather.

Highway signs and QuickMap (http://quickmap.dot. ca.gov) will indicate when chains are required, and drivers must stop and install chains. Motorists should pull off the roadway completely to install them.

If you need help, chain installers may be available to assist for a fee. Please note, chain installers are not Caltrans employees. They are independent business people who are licensed to install chains.

Once chains are installed, obey the speed limit of 25 or 30 miles per hour, posted at various locations.

A

Chain Control Levels • R-1: Chains, traction devices or snow tires with proper tread depth of 6/32” are required on the drive axle of all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles.

• R-2: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. NOTE: Four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas.

• R-3: Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions. NOTE: R-1 and R-2 are the most common chain controls. The highway will usually be closed before an R-3 control is imposed) Please be safe out there California. n ••• For more information on winter driving, chain controls, and additional resources, visit Caltrans Winter Driving Tips (https://dot.ca.gov/ travel/winter-driving-tips).

COMMUNITY NEWS

Protections for Mobile Home Residents O n Dec. 10, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance protecting mobile and manufactured home residents while preserving affordable housing stock.

The new ordinance is consistent with State law, and requires park owners to justify park closures. This includes disclosing future plans for the property, to ensure that they are consistent with local low-income housing preservation policies.

“Santa Cruz County is an incredibly expensive place to live, and our mobile and manufactured homes are invaluable in offering affordable housing to some of our most vulnerable residents,” Supervisor John Leopold said. “It is incumbent upon us to do all we can to protect and preserve these homes so that people aren’t displaced from our community.”

One recent study found widespread circumvention of State law when it comes to mobile home park conversions, due to owners closing parks prior to submission of plans for future uses of the property.

Between 1998 and 2019, 565 parks were converted throughout California, resulting in

the loss of 17,149 housing units, according to the study.

The new ordinance would require park owners to seek approval and demonstrate legitimate reasons for closure. If the closure is approved, the ordinance further

protects residents by allowing the County to attach reasonable conditions designed to mitigate the impact of park closure. The ordinance was reviewed by the Mobile and Manufactured Home Commission prior to approval by the Board of Supervisors.

Numerous residents and members of the Mobile and Manufactured Home Commission attended the Board hearing to support the ordinance.

It is expected to go into effect in early 2020. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 19

NATIONAL NEWS

Congressman Panetta Co-Introduces the End Valley Fever Now Act WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) co-introduced H.R. 5438, the End Valley Fever Now Act, to address the potentially deadly disease caused by breathing in toxic spores found in soil. Congressman TJ Cox (CA-21) is the lead sponsor of the bill.

“Cases of Valley Fever in communities across the Central Coast have skyrocketed over the last few years. The End Valley Fever Now Act will help train our local medical providers to diagnose and treat those exposed to this disease. It will also help us to be more proactive in vaccine development by colJimmy Panetta lecting critical clinical data,” said Congressman Panetta. “Our legislation is an important step forward in combatting this disease and protecting our community members.”

“Valley Fever can be deadly and troubling data shows it’s only going to get worse with climate change,” said Congressman Cox. “In discussions across the Central Valley and at my valley fever town hall in October, I heard from patients, experts, and advocates whose lives have been impacted by the disease.

We must bring more awareness and education as well as access to faster diagnosis and clinical trials. My bill does just that for

the thousands who have contracted Valley Fever and the millions across California and the Southwest at risk for infection.

Central Valley families should be able to work and play outdoors without fear of valley fever, and for those who do have it, we need the best, most advanced care to save their lives.”

“As the number of Valley Fever cases increases due to changing weather patterns and climate change, we must do more to understand this illness and how we can remove barriers to care for impacted individuals,” said Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-03). “This legislation funds much-needed research on Valley Fever while improving access to clinical trials for those living in endemic areas — including Southern Arizona. This will provide us with new information on how we can better diagnose and treat new cases and help our communities.”

“Valley Fever is a huge problem in our area — especially for our farmers and farmworkers — we have to be more aggressive in offering and improving access to treatment, and warning folks about the

risks involved,” said Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10). “This bill signals our commitment to bringing the federal support we need to the Valley to help folks affected by this dangerous condition.”

“Valley fever is a serious and sometimes deadly disease that’s on the rise and disproportionately affects our farm laborers. We need to take steps to ensure

“Cases of Valley Fever in communities across the Central Coast have skyrocketed over the last few years. The End Valley Fever Now Act will help train our local medical providers to diagnose and treat those exposed to this disease.”

— Congressman Jimmy Panetta

LINCOLN-REAGAN DINNER

RSVP by February 15 (December 31 to save $10) For reservations call Kris or Donna at (831) 419-3357 or e-mail kkirbymom@pacbell.net

Santa Cruz Republican Women and Santa Cruz Republican Party invite you to attend their annual dinner Saturday, February 2 9, 2020 No Host Cocktails 5:30 Dinner 6:30 Entertainment by the Santa Cruz Follies Six

RSVP by mail. Send check payable to “SCCRCC” to SCCRCC PO Box 3086 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 (Include names and entrée choices on check)

SCRWF PO Box 3235 Santa Cruz, CA 95063 Telephone (831) 588-2642 info@scrwf.org

Special Guest Speaker

Sally C. Pipes President & CEO Thomas W. Smith Fellow In Health Care Policy Pacific Research Institute

Ms. Pipes will speak about the Trojan Horse of health care for all.

Prior to becoming president of PRI in 1991, she was assistant director of the Fraser Institute, based in Vancouver, Canada. Ms. Pipes addresses national and international audiences on health care.

She was interviewed on the Fox News show “Life, Liberty and Levin” on Medicare for All, that was seen by 1.5 million viewers on the first showing, ABC’s “20/20”; CNN; FOX News; NBC “Nightly News”; FOX Business Network; “The O’Reilly Factor”; FOX News’ “Your World with Neil Cavut”; “The Today Show”; “Kudlow & Company on CNBC; MSNBC; “Dateline”; “Politically Incorrect”; “The Dennis Miller Show”, and other prominent programs.

INVITE FRIENDS YOU KNOW WHO WANT THE TRUTH ABOUT UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE. 20 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Dinner Menu Options Grilled Tenderloin Steak Char Grilled Salmon Saccotino Pasta Purse $75 Per Person $85 After 12/31/19 Seascape Beach Resort 1 Seascape Resort Dr., Aptos

patients are getting the care they need.

This bill will provide training for doctors to learn more about the disease and help remove some of the financial barriers that can prevent patients from receiving treatment,” said Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16).

“Valley fever is an issue all too familiar to me; this largely unexplored disease disproportionately affects Arizonans and constituents in my district, infecting thousands every year and contributing to far too many deaths,” said Congressman Tom O’Halleran (AZ-01). “This bill will provide physician training, education, and funding to study the effectiveness of current diagnosis and treatment practices, and work towards ending this disease.”

“In college, I fell victim to a Valley Fever infection, and I remember how awful and incredibly inconvenient it was. Nearly two-thirds of Valley Fever cases are contracted in Arizona and there is still so much unknown about the disease. I am proud to support this bill because we need to be able to fund the research and resources needed to fight the disease. I know we have the intelligence and science technologies to learn more about it and find ways to combat it, we just need the funding to do it.

Speaking from experience, it’s time to end Valley Fever,” said Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-02).

“I am proud to join with Congressman Cox and our colleagues to introduce legislation that will enhance our ability to identify and treat valley fever, which affects so many people in the American Southwest,” said Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07). n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Women’s Adventure Film Tour January 25 at the Rio Theatre

T

he WOMEN’S ADVENTURE FILM TOUR, is back in North America for its 2nd season!

This short film festival is a celebration of the inspiring women around us who are doing extraordinary things in the name of adventure. This year’s lineup features an all-star cast of global athletes, business women, mothers and storytellers, including cliff diver Rhiannan Iffland, climber/yoga instructor Kira Brazinski, long distance hiker Jennifer Pharr-Davis, and many more including women in snow sports, mountaineering and mountain biking.

The WOMEN’S ADVENTURE FILM TOUR will be an official part of International Women’s Day in March 2020 although the local screening will be on January 25 at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz. The 2019 / 2020 tour is benefitting Naretoi — A non-profit supporting girl’s education, women’s empowerment, local economic efforts and cultural exchange in Maasailand, Kenya. For more information visit naretoikenya.org For more information visit www. riotheatre.com/events-2/2020/1/25/ womens-adventure-film-tour Tickets available at www.brownpaper tickets.com/event/4429515 Sponsored by BMC — Switzerland, Apex Adventures, Santa Cruz Waves and Adventure Sports Journal. n •••

List of films A GRAND JOURNEY (Climbing / Adversity) USA- 15 minutes orn and raised in Jackson, WY Kira Brazinski has found a great love for

B

the outdoors. Her lifestyle involves hiking, skiing, biking and pursuing her career as a yoga instructor.

Kira was born with a rare birth defect resulting in missing most of her left leg.

Since being able to walk, she has used a prosthetic leg. While some might see this as a major setback, Kira’s fiery passion and athleticism drives her to achieve her goals and amaze those around her with her achievements.

Climbing the iconic Grand Teton has been a childhood dream of Kira’s. In A Grand Journey short documentary film we get an intimate look into Kira’s unique but incredibly relatable journey as she attempts to take on a goal she herself may not believe is possible.

When I Look Back

family, friends, and missing out on big chunks of her youth?

“Film Tour” page 25

MI MAMA (Running / Life) USA- 5 minutes i Mamá” follows Nadia Mercado and her mother, Clariza Valdez, as they go back to Arches National Park in Moab to experience the natural space together.

The film unveils how Nadia fell in love with the outdoors at a young age, and how her mother’s spirit lives within her.

M

RAINBOW DIVE (Cliff Diving) Australia- 26 minutes ow do you continue to push yourself when you’ve already conquered the world?

Having won all there is to win in the world of cliff diving, including three Red Bull World Cliff Diving World Series, Rhiannan Ifflandis now at a crossroads: was it worth all the sacrifices she made along the way?

Was it worth being away from her

H

Rainbow Dive

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 21

COMMUNITY NEWS

Passwords You Should Never Use

NordPass Gives Advice on Password Hygiene For the New Year

N

ordPass has listed 200 most commonly used passwords of 2019.

The list contains such easy-to-hack login credentials as “12345” or a romantic “iloveyou.” Despite the constant reminders from cybersecurity experts, people keep on using the same letter or number combination for all their accounts.

The most popular passwords of 2019 contain all easy-to-guess number combinations, such as 12345, 111111, and 123321, or just strings of letters forming a horizontal or vertical line on a QWERTY keyboard: asdfghjkl, qazwsx, 1qaz2wsx, etc. The most obvious one — “password” — remains very

popular, as 830,846 people still use it in 2019.

“2019 has seen the most data breaches in history, and those cyber incidents have affected billions of internet users. People struggle creating passwords, and this is one of the main reasons why users stick to the primitive ones. However, passwords should help protect us instead of putting our privacy in danger. It is as important as ever that internet users step up their cybersecurity game,” says Chad Hammond, a security expert at NordPass.

The list of 200 most popular passwords was compiled from the credentials that were leaked in data breaches just this year — independent researchers evaluated the database contains 500 million passwords in total.

Year after year, people continue to use the same passwords that can be seen at the top of the “worst passwords” list. As Chad Hammond notes, such passwords are easy to remember. “Most people prefer to use weak passwords rather than trying

22 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

to remember long, complex ones. It also usually means they use the same one for all their accounts. And if one of them ends up in a breach, all other accounts get compromised, too.”

People also often think they have nothing to hide. “But no one leaves their house unlocked. Even if there’s nothing valuable inside, nobody would like strangers sniffing around. And just imagine them changing the lock. The same applies to your online life. Nobody wants to lose access to their personal accounts, especially paying thousands in ransom afterward,” Chad Hammond, a security expert at NordPass, explains.

To keep your accounts secure, here are 5 tips on how to maintain good password hygiene: 1) Go over all the accounts you have and delete the ones you no longer use. If a small, obscure website ends up breached, you might never even

Here are the top 20 passwords which you should never use:

• 12345 • 123456 • 123456789 • test1 • password • 12345678 • zinch • g_czechout • asdf • qwerty

• 1234567890 • 1234567 • Aa123456.

• iloveyou • 1234 • abc123 • 111111 • 123123 • dubsmash • test

hear about it. You can use haveibeenpawned.com to check if your email was ever in a breach.

“Bad Passwords” page 23

HEALTH & FITNESS

Are You Getting All Your Vitamins?

G etting all the vitamins and nutrients you need each day is one of the most important things you can do to feel your best.

The good news is that you don’t need to devote hours each week to meal prep to ensure you’re healthfully getting essential vitamins. As you make your 2020 plans to revamp your diet, here are a few things to keep in mind: • Don’t follow fads: When it comes to your wellness, it’s best to rely on basic science, not the latest fad diets or sports drinks and supplements that rely on added sugars, fillers, preservatives, artificial flavors, sweeteners, dyes, and negatives. Look for products that transparently list all their ingredients.

• Drink your vitamins: Did you know that liquids are the most bioavailable form for your body to absorb nutrients? For complete health on-the-go, consider drinking your vitamins. One effective solution is Drink Nutrient, which offers singleserve stick packs that make it easy to

get the essential vitamins you need.

Among its offerings is Vitamin Coffee, a natural sustained energy booster made from 100 percent Colombian Arabica coffee that offers 50 percent of your daily essential vitamins in each serving. Served hot or cold, it’s a good choice for anyone who needs a caffeine boost without the crash. Or, to

get 100 percent of your daily essential vitamins and 610 mg of electrolytes in one go, consider Vitamin Booster+, which contains real fruit juice, less than one gram of sugar, and is only 15 calories per serving.

• De-stress: Too much stress can compromise your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. So, take steps to relax and

Parkinson’s Group January Meeting

T

Congregational Church of Soquel • Wednesday, Jan. 8 • 2 – 3:30 p.m.

he January meeting of the Santa Cruz County Parkinson’s Group will be devoted to ‘Getting to Know You’ activities. This is a well-loved and appreciated forum that permits those who are most isolated to meet up and connect with others in our community in a relaxed and fun environment.

The vibrant Santa Cruz Parkinson’s community of those with PD, their family members, and volunteers continues to welcome new members, and hopes to increase its impact in Santa Cruz County.

The group is committed to disseminating the latest scientific information about the disease and in supporting access to much-needed exercise and other therapeutic activities. n ••• he Santa Cruz County Parkinson’s Group (SCCPG), a project of the not-for-profit EASE PD, Inc. (www.easepd.org), for 25 years has had the mission to foster a supportive environment for People with Parkinson’s disease, their families, friends, and

T

“Bad Passwords” from page 22 2) Update all your passwords and use unique, complicated ones to safeguard your accounts. Employ a password generator to make sure they are impossible to guess. To see if any of your current passwords were ever exposed online, head over to our password strength checker.

caregivers. It provides community outreach in the form of a newsletter called “Movers and Shakers” and via informational brochures placed in local physicians’ offices.

Congregational Church of Soquel, 4951 Soquel Drive, Soquel, CA 95073. www.easepd.org/sccpsg

3) Use 2FA if you can. Whether it’s an app, biometric data, or hardware security key, your accounts will be much safer when you add that extra layer of protection.

4) Set up a password manager. It is a perfect tool for both generating and storing passwords. With a trustworthy manager like NordPass, you

will only need to remember one master password and forget about the rest.

5) Make sure to check your every account for suspicious activities regularly. If you notice something unusual, change your password immediately.

••• NordPass is a new generation

unwind. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, cooking or jogging -- discover what hobbies and wellness activities help you reduce your stress levels and be sure to make time for them.

• Refuel wisely: If you hit the gym frequently, you likely have tried one or two sports drinks and know how important it is to refuel quickly and wisely after a workout. For optimal high performance, consider upgrading your drink of choice. With double the electrolytes of leading sports drinks, Liquid Nutrient has a potassium-to-sodium ratio intended for high-quality hydration, as well as amino acids for mental focus and muscle repair.

• Maximize meals: To maximize meals, make sure the bulk of the calories you consume are not “empty.” Empty calories, such as added sugars and solid fats, contain little to no nutritional value. Fill up on dark leafy vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds and good-for-you fats like avocado and salmon, while avoiding chips, cakes and other junk foods.

Don’t let your busy lifestyle get in the way of ensuring you’re getting all the nutrients you need to feel your best. This new year, resolve to revamp your diet for optimal nutrition. n StatePoint Media

password manager shaped with cuttingedge technology, zero-knowledge encryption, simplicity, and intuitive design in mind. It securely stores and organizes passwords by keeping them in one convenient place. NordPass was created by the cybersecurity experts behind NordVPN — one of the most advanced VPN service providers in the world. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 23

FEATURED COLUMNIST

What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

A

re you suffering from chronic illness or a debilitating autoimmune disease of some kind that’s keeping you from enjoying life to the fullest? Recent medical research has revealed that many chronic health problems, especially autoimmune diseases, are caused by a “leaky gut” so it’s imperative to understand what it is and what to do to heal it.

Simple concept: “Don’t keep pouring water into a leaky bucket.”

The bucket (your stomach) becomes leaky when poor diet and lifestyle choices create an environment in your gut that promotes the growth of harmful bacteria that hinder proper digestion and increase intestinal hyperpermeability. That could happen when tight junctions in the gut, which control what passes through the lining of the small intestine, don’t work properly and toxic substances are allowed to leak into the bloodstream.

These substances, pieces of undigested food and large chain protein molecules are then seen as “foreign invaders” by the immune system and are attacked by your white blood cells.

This creates inflammation that may lead to autoimmune diseases. The good news is, this process can be reversed by replacing the bad-harmful bacteria with healthful-good bacteria.

(A few years ago I contracted a crippling autoimmune disease called Polymyalgia Rheumatica or PMR and I was motivated to heal it. Based on my research I started with healing my gut. First, I did tests to determine what my gut bacteria looked like … it turned out I had the kind of rogue bacteria that liked fried foods and alcohol.

Obviously, if I wanted to be healthy, I needed to make some changes ... which I did. In only 56 days I healed my gut and subsequently was healed of all my diseases and off all prescription medication!)

Here is the basic protocol to heal a leaky gut: The easiest way to jumpstart the healing process is to take a good

By John Wilkins

probiotic in capsule form. The “good bacteria” will become the gatekeepers of our gut. Think about it this way, when you add the proper probiotics to your diet, the good guys are coming over the hill to save the day. They will crowd out the bad bacteria and create a new and healthy nutrient-loving garden in your intestines.

And here’s the key: the good bacteria will close off the weak areas in your gut and prevent toxic substances from leaking out and into the blood stream, thus elimitating chronic inflammation leading to disease. So, bottom line: Find a functional doctor, MD or Chiropractor that is familiar with the probiotic protocol.

Or go to a health food store and ask them for some help and buy the capsules and start the process of healing your gut. My doctor, Adam Fields, recommended Microbiome, a prescription based pharmaceutical grade probiotic.

Great Food Options for Fixing a Leaky Gut Now that we have repopulated our gut with the good bacteria, we need to properly feed and nourish them so they stay happy and stick around to continue doing the job of feeding the rest of our body. So, start eating foods that are good and protective and healing for your gut. Here is a partial list: • Vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, arugula, carrots, kale, eggplant, beetroot, Swiss chard, spinach, ginger, mushrooms and zucchini.

• Roots and tubers: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, carrots, squash and turnips.

• Fermented vegetables: Kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh and miso.

• Fruit: Coconut, grapes, bananas,

• • • • •

blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, oranges, mandarin, lemon, limes, passionfruit and papaya.

Gluten-free grains: Buckwheat, amaranth, rice (brown and white), sorghum, and gluten-free oats.

Healthy fats: Avocado, avocado oil, coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil.

Fish: Salmon, tuna, herring and other omega-3-rich fish.

Beverages: Bone broth, teas, coconut milk, nut milk, water and kombucha.

Nuts: Raw nuts including almonds, walnuts and nut-based products, such as nut milks.

Some Foods to Avoid The following list contains foods that may harm healthy gut bacteria, as well as some that are believed to trigger digestive symptoms, such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea: • Wheat-based products: Bread, pasta, cereals, wheat flour, couscous, etc.

• Gluten-containing grains: Barley, rye, bulgur, seitan, triticale and

It’s so simple: eat healthy, mostly plant-based food with a lot of ruffage and avoid unhealthy highly processed food-like substances and cut back on your alcohol intake, but you knew this all along.

24 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

• Processed meats: Cold cuts, deli meats, bacon, hot dogs, etc.

• Red Meat • Baked goods: Cakes, muffins, cookies, pies, pastries and pizza.

• Junk food: Fast foods, potato chips, sugary cereals, candy bars, etc.

• Dairy products: Milk, cheeses and ice cream.

• Refined oils: Canola, sunflower, soybean and safflower oils.

• Artificial sweeteners: Aspartame, sucralose and saccharin.

• Sauces: Salad dressings, as well as soy, teriyaki and hoisin sauce.

• Beverages: Alcohol, carbonated beverages and other sugary drinks.

It’s so simple: eat healthy, mostly plant-based food with a lot of ruffage and avoid unhealthy highly processed food-like substances and cut back on your alcohol intake, but you knew this all along. To be healed, follow the whole food, plant based diet and lifestyle. Let the healing begin! n ••• For more detailed information on the Leaky Gut syndrome and how to heal it, visit: www.ourpassionforhealth.org John Wilkins is the author of the book “To Thine Own Health Be True” and the founder and CEO of “Our Passion For Health,” a non-profit organization dedicated to public health education for the betterment of mankind. Contact John at john@ourpassionforhealth.org for more information.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Public Input Sought About 2045 RTP T he Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) is currently seeking public input to help define the Goals, Targets & Policies for the 2045 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), a long-range transportation plan that serves as a guide for future transportation improvement projects by assessing the transportation challenges we face now and those we will face in the future.

The RTC would like public input to help define the goals, targets and policies for the 2045 RTP. Members of the public can provide

“Film Tour” from page 21 WHEN I LOOK BACK (Mountain Biking) USA- 3 minutes hen I Look Back follows four women mountain bikers ripping around Moab, Utah. But this is not your typical adrenaline-fueled adventure film.

Both lighthearted and contemplative, it’s a glimpse into a tight-knit group of friends doing what they love and picking each other up when they fall down.

Looking back on their lives, this is what they will remember.

W

THE LINE BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL (Skiing / Expedition) USA- 14 minutes aptain of The North Face Athlete Team, with a career spanning two decades that includes dozens of first descents through more than 40 expeditions to 16 different countries, Hilaree Nelson is the most prolific ski mountaineer of her generation.

The 45-year-old mother of two was the first female to link two 8000m peaks, Everest and Lhotse, in one 24 hour push.

In the fall of 2018, she returned to 27,940foot Lhotse a second time to ski from the summit, linking turns down one of the most prized un-skied lines in the world.

In this piece, Nelson takes us to the pinnacle of Papsura, the 21,165 foot “Peak of Evil”, which she has obsessed over for nearly 20 years. Take a “real” look at how a fast-moving team handles the extreme elements, and attempts to summit, and ski down this daunting face.

C

IS THIS THE TOP? (Hiking) USA- 15 minutes here was never a doubt. Those are the words we use when describing the film we chose as the finale to Vol. 2 of our tour.

Jennifer Pharr-Davis is a long distance hiker, professional speaker, wife, mother of two, business owner, writer and now film subject. As the 2-time holder of the Fastest

input to help inform the plan by taking a short survey and by reviewing the Draft Goals, Targets & Policies and providing input on the document.

Answers from the survey, along with comments on the draft document, will help the RTC update the Draft Goals, Targets & Policies and define priority projects.

Survey Links English: http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ 72CNNPZ Spanish: http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ VSKHBGC

Draft Goals, Targets & Policies Links Eng.: sccrtc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ SCCRTC-DRAFTRTPGoalsPolicytargets-2022. pdf Span.: sccrtc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ RTP-Draft-Goals_Spanish.pdf Input on the Draft Goals, Targets & Polices can be submitted by email to 2045rtp@sccrtc.org, mailed to 1523 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95060, or sent by fax to 831-460-6178.

The deadline to provide public input is Jan. 3 at 5 p.m. n •••

Year-in-Review

Known Time on the Appalachian Trail, and with over 14,000 miles of long distance through hiking to her name, JPD explains what adventure means to her today.

Don’t leave early. You’ll want to see and hear this one!

NARETOI (Climbing / Culture) USA- 27 minutes aretoi — which means “women helping women” in Maasai — follows a group of Maasai and American women on a unique self supported expedition to the summit of Mt. Kenya, 16,355 ft.

The Maasai tribe still live as pastoralists in a deeply traditional, patriarchal, and polygamous culture. Most Maasai women have never left their “boma” or village and few make any decisions without male permission - their focus is on survival.

Doing anything solely for themselves is an intangible luxury not afforded to women in Maasai culture, especially something like climbing a mountain without any involvement or assistance by men.

This expedition is unique in how the women overcome cultural and language barriers to collectively conquer a large mountain.

The mountain symbolizes the challenges that we all face as women fighting an uphill battle to gain equality in our lives.

This experience is an opportunity to empower each other and focus on self introspection and discovery.

Regional Transportation Plan 2045: https://sccrtc.org/funding-planning/ long-range-plans/2045-regional-transportation-plan/ Public Survey Information: https:// sccrtc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ S C C RT C - D R A F T RT P G o a l s P o l i c ytargets-2022.pdf ••• Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, 1523 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. email info@sccrtc.org | website www.sccrtc.org. Follow our social networks for the latest RTC news

N

T

Naretoi • Photo Credit: Katie Sugarman

ACROSS

1. Pin location 6. BBQ sauce alternative 9. *Volodymyr Zelensky’s capital 13. 0103 food poison 14. Between sea and shining sea, abbr.

15. Native of American Great Plains 16. Famous fabulist 17. Band performance 18. Prefix with national and pol 19. *The Mueller ____ 21. *European country declared to be no longer free 23. Ostrich-like bird 24. Fix a horse

25. Old Spice: “Smell Like a Man, ____” 28. Diva’s delivery 30. Opposite of underdog 35. Seed covering 37. Share a boundary 39. Miller’s product 40. Leave behind 41. *Flute playing rapper 43. Pot contribution 44. Make corrections 46. Days in Havana 47. Nomad’s round house 48. Caesar derivative 50. “Fifteen Miles on the ____ Canal” 52. Mad Hatter’s drink 53. Hofbråuhaus offering 55. Bard’s before 57. *He got life plus 30 61. *Eurosceptics vs. pro-Europeanists point of debate

64. Sweeney Todd’s weapon 65. Seek damages 67. *Archie was one before he was born 69. *Bran, Lord of the Six Kingdoms, e.g.

70. “____ Now or Never” 71. *What Jeffrey Epstein had in store 72. Seaside bird 73. Volleyball divider 74. Set in motion 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8. Take a tubby 9. *Best Actress in Supporting Role Oscar-winner 10. Tiny bit 11. Pitcher 12. Subject to change 15. To some extent, two words 20. Not urban 22. Final, abbr.

24. More gossamer 25. *Actor in Leading Role Oscar-winner DOWN 26. Wafting pleasantness Grazing ground 27. One born to Japanese Maple tree or laptop immigrants brand 29. Footnote acronym Downward dog, e.g. 31. Performance with acts Skip the big wedding 32. Holey confection Benign fatty tumor 33. Grossly unconvenPipe problem tional *Europe voted to ban 34. *Swedish environsingle-____ plastics mentalist

36. Eye contact 38. Nicholas II was the last one 42. Willow twig 45. Go ashore 49. Tombstone acronym 51. Builds 54. Fluorescent red dye 56. Make an effort 57. Formerly, formerly 58. Better than never 59. #38 Down, alt. sp.

60. Some blow their own 61. *”Green Book,” winner of ____ Picture 62. Hip bones 63. Salty drop 66. Shoshonean 68. Summer sandwich? © Statepoint Media

Answers on 31 »

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 25

Your January Horoscope Times Publishing Group, Inc. Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb. 18)

You’re going through a range of emotions early in January. Conflicting forces pulling on you make things different, so hang on for a bumpy emotional ride. Balance will start to be restored mid-month, bringing you back to a bit of clarity, even increasing your normal creativity a bit, making it a good time to look into perfecting something you’ve been working on. Late in the month you feel a freeing sense of confidence, allowing you to bring your projects into the public eye and showcase what you’ve been working on. A positive attitude will help you present your work.

Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20)

You feel a sense of calm as the new year gets underway. Your emotions are in a perfect place for taking time to sort through your biggest issues. But there’s no rush; like the calm you feel, whatever you’re working through can be done in it’s own time. Your compassion for others comes to the fore mid-month. You feel a desire to help others, especially those you trust. That doesn’t mean you should ignore your instincts when dealing with strangers, though. Late in January your intuition seems to be working in overdrive, but it’s also filling you with doubt and suspicion, which wars with your desire to help. It’s a balance you’ll have to figure out to move forward.

Aries (March 21-April 20)

You’re beginning the month filled with energy. You’ve made your New Year resolutions and you’re ready to tackle them head-on! Woe anyone who tries to get in your way. You find yourself having important discussions about your future mid-January. You don’t have all the details you need just yet, but you’re figuring out what you need to do to get them. Late in the month, aggressive tendencies are causing problems, when they usually are an asset. You may need to ask for some advice to help you get through a difficult relationship or work problem without ruffling too many feathers.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Your patience is your strength as January gets started. Regardless of what’s going on, you are ready to work through towards positive goals. You’re feeling creative and empathetic mid-month. Your closest relationships will probably notice a softer side poking through, even as you look for new ways to solve problems. Late in the month some stronger emotions start to poke through, threatening tension and power struggles. It’s going to take your best efforts to resist the desire to let the arguments overwhelm your plans. Another option is to just take a short, but significant, break, allowing tempers to fade.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it fuels your soul as the new year begins. Every new experience is a chance to grow, one you’re excited about. It’s a perfect time to expand your horizons. You’re still intellectually stimulated mid-month, diving into research even while reaching out to expand your connections. Don’t worry if you can’t network with everyone on your list this month, though. A relationship you had hopes for may be in trouble late in January. Any tension that’s been building between you and a hopeful significant other may come to a head, and maintaining your composure is your best hope to salvage the situation, if that’s what you want.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

There’s a lot of emotions floating around you early in the new year, but if you can maintain your focus, you should be able to balance the effects and keep stable to bring about a positive experience.

Still, if you find things getting out of hand, your emotions should settle to a more decisive and controlled level by mid-January. It’s a good time to re-establish how you want to be seen in the world. Late in the month you find yourself open to new experiences and new people, much more than normal. It’s a great time to make new friends or try a new hobby. Good luck!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 23)

Your optimism is on full display as January begins. You’re feeling even more outgoing than normal, making it a perfect time for meeting new people and making new connections. You’re reminded of the unfinished projects on your to-do list mid-month, putting a slight damper on your activities. But don’t worry; each project you finish will clear a bit of tension, and once you finish them all, you’ll be ready for anything! Your overseer qualities are strong as the month comes to a close. Keeping your options open is your best bet as you listen to suggestions and delegate to the best people.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sep. 22)

You’re on fire early in the new year. Your focus is strong and your determination is recognized. Staying efficient is your goal, and you aim to achieve it. Your preparation and focus carry you through a slew of challenging problems mid-month. All those puzzles and brain-games help keep your mind sharp and ready to tackle new issues. You’re looking at things in a new light late in January, helping you break out any ruts you’ve been in. It’s a refreshing feeling to start or finish something new.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 23)

You’re feeling a need for the security of family early in the new year. Making plans for a “surprise” gathering could bring everyone a modicum of comfort, something you’re happy to provide with some home-cooking. You may find your routine upended mid-January. Having trouble communicating with friends and family? It doesn’t matter if people are choosing not to respond or if technology is failing you, it’s still a sore point in the moment. Keep the lines of communication open regardless of what’s happening. You’re having a hard time asking for things as the month comes to a close, even when you know you’ve earned them. There will be a right time; you just need patience and determination.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

The world seems a bit small to you as January begins. It’s a perfect time to broaden your horizon and do some traveling, or start making plans for when you have the time to do so. Even if you have to wait, sate that wanderlust by deciding where to go. You’re feeling a bit secretive mid-month, and that’s on top of your usual desires to keep to yourself. Not much is likely to draw you out during this time. You’re feeling much less constrained late in the month. Your creative side is trying hard to push through, even while a desire to be more open struggles against your base attitude. Putting yourself out there is never a bad idea, even failure can be a learning experience.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Bare Root Season Has Begun

B

By Tony Tomeo

efore all the Christmas trees were sold and relinquished their space, the smaller types of bare root stock started arriving in local nurseries.

Blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, gooseberries, currants, grapes, strawberries, rhubarb and asparagus, may have been available for a while. More substantial bare root stock, such as roses, fruit trees and ornamentals, may already be arriving.

Bare root stock is known as such simply because its roots are bare. It gets dug as dormancy begins in autumn, and separated from the soil it grew in. It remains dormant as it gets transported to nurseries, and then to home gardens where it ultimately gets planted. It is completely unaware of the otherwise unsurvivable processes until it wakes up to resume growth in a new home in spring.

The roots of some of the smaller bare root plants and roses, as well as some fruit trees, are bagged in damp sawdust. Most bare root fruit trees, as well as some of the smaller plants, are merely heeled-in to damp sand, and upon purchase, pulled from the sand and bagged without packing material. Roots can soak in water for a few days prior to planting, but will not survive dry exposure.

There are several advantages to bare root stock. It is significantly less expensive than canned (potted) stock. It is also easier to get from a nursery and into the home garden. Branch structure can develop directly in a garden, rather than adapt from how it developed earlier in a nursery.

New roots disperse directly into the soil, so need not recover from former confinement within a can (pot).

The more popular bare root fruit trees that are now becoming available are stone

There’s a feeling of emotional energy in the air early in the new year. It’s a great time to push towards a new goal or adventure, but you’re also feeling closer to your family, and especially protective if you have kids. Keeping your loved ones safe is paramount. You’re feeling even more emotionally connected mid-month. Your desire to spend lots of quality time with your partner is almost overwhelming, so be careful you don’t push them away with your love. Your adventuring spirit is fully in control late in January. It’s hard to sit still and watch the world go by — you want to get on the ride! You have lots of responsibilities though, but if you get through them, a road trip is a pretty good idea.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

Your mind is doing Olympic trials as the new year gets underway. Try not to overextend, but the more projects you cross off, the easier it’ll be to relax when you’re ready. You’re still in a “get-itdone” mode mid-January, which will likely be helpful at work or at home, especially if there are any communication issues. Emotion and finance don’t mix well near the end of the month, especially if they’re caused by a negative surprise. Not much point trying to hide your feelings; getting everything out in the open now is your best chance for resolution and moving on.

•••

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 26 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

Bare root season has already begun.

Spring blooming forsythia gets planted now.

fruits, pomme fruits, persimmons, figs, mulberries and walnuts. Stone fruits are those of the genus Prunus, which contain single large seeds known as stones. These include apricots, cherries, plums, prunes, peaches, nectarines, almonds and their weird hybrids. Apples, pears, and quinces are pomme fruits.

(Almonds are nuts that are actually stones of leathery fruits that dry and separate from the stones as hulls.)

Highlight: Forsythia his may seem to be three months early, or an entire season out of season; but this is when bare root forsythia, Forsythia X intermedia, gets planted. Even so, the smaller of new bare root plants will bloom with only a few flowers early in their first spring, so will not produce their famously profuse and garishly bright yellow bloom for another year and three months. They will be worth the wait.

Flowers are small but very abundant.

They bloom as winter turns to spring, before there is any new foliage to interfere with their splendor. Foliage develops as bloom finishes, and if the weather is right, it might get somewhat colorful in autumn.

The simple paired leaves are about two or perhaps three inches long. Big plants should stay less than ten feet tall, but can get taller if lightly shaded.

Pruning should be done after bloom rather than before, and from the inside out rather than from the outside in. Dormant pruning, although more horticulturally correct, eliminates some of the canes that would otherwise bloom in spring. After bloom, older overgrown canes that are beginning to deteriorate should be pruned to the ground to promote development of new canes to replace them. n ••• Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

T

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Happy New Year!

May 2020 Be as Successful and Rewarding as 2019!

By Melanie Mow Schumacher

W

ell, all of our calendars are now out of “the teens” and into “the twenties.” What a milestone!

Here at the Soquel Creek Water District we enter 2020 with a great sense of accomplishment and achievement – and a strong resolve to continue our determination and hard work in providing a clean, safe, sustainable water supply for the community we serve.

We achieved so much in the last year, and those successes have set the stage for even more great things in 2020. Here is a brief run-down of some of the District’s key accomplishments of 2019: • The District was awarded a $50 million grant from the State’s Proposition 1 Groundwater Implementation Grant Program, for the Pure Water Soquel Groundwater Replenishment and Seawater Intrusion Prevention Project.

At the same time, the State approved a $36 million very low interest (1.3%) loan through its Seawater Intrusion Control Loan Program, representing approximately $11 million in interest savings compared to original projections. These funds are in addition to another low-interest loan program we were accepted for from the Environmental Protection Agency. With significant funding now in place, Pure Water Soquel is on-track, with further design and pre-construction efforts in full swing for 2020!

• And speaking of Pure Water Soquel: the District recently prevailed in a court case challenging Pure Water Soquel’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR) certification and project approval. In November, the court ruled in favor of the District, refuting each and every challenge raised, affirming that the District’s EIR and the certification / adoption process were fully compliant with the California Environmental Quality Act. • We were recognized by The Bay Area News Group as one of 85 Top Workplaces in 2019. This annual rating is based on employee feedback gathered through an anonymous, third-party survey measuring key aspects of workplace culture including organizational alignment, effective execution, and meaningful connection with employees. We’re proud to have

achieved this rating for the first time, and inspired to make the list again this year!

• The District was honored with the Transparency Certificate of Excellence from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF), a state-wide nonprofit which provides professional certifications to special district officials and employees. This award – the District’s third since 2015 – is in recognition of the District’s outstanding transparency and good governance.

Every two years, special districts must be re-accredited to demonstrate transparency is maintained. In addition to the Transparency Certification, District General Manager Ron Duncan received the SDLF’s Special District Administrator Certification, which recognizes the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of professional special district administrators.

• The District and Santa Cruz County conducted groundwater recharge testing at two sites to investigate potential stormwater capture projects.

This included soil sampling and periodic drilling to examine the potential use of drywells to capture stormwater runoff and filter it into the aquifer.

• The Surface Water Pilot Project was in full swing at the top of 2019 and again at the end of this year with the purchase of surplus surface (river) water from Santa Cruz as a supplemental water supply. This pilot project delivers water to certain areas of the District for a limited period of time, to evaluate water quality and physical operating system challenges, and analyze groundwater levels and operational aspects of such transfers.

• We held our fun, informative Water Wise Academy in the spring and fall, which offer community members the opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of how the District operates, learn about the various water issues affecting the region, tour the District’s facilities, meet and talk with board members, staff, and other participants who care about water.

• A Seawater Intrusion Prevention Recharge Pilot Well was built on the Twin Lakes Church Property in Aptos to provide data on replenishment of the groundwater aquifer. Data collected will be used to determine recharge and extraction capacity and other information, with the goal informing a series of recharge wells to protect the groundwater basin and prevent further seawater intrusion.

We could not look back at 2019 without taking a moment to remember and honor the District’s beloved “water princess,” Vai Campbell, who lost her life along with 33 other people in the tragic Catalina boat fire in September. Vai is greatly missed by her family, her friends, and all of us here at the District who were so fortunate to have known and worked with her. She will not be forgotten.

Thank you to all our customers and community members who continue to cherish our endangered groundwater resources. We are #inthistogether with you to protect our basin from further seawater intrusion!

Happy New Year to all — we are ready for 2020, and beyond! n ••• As always, if you have any questions about this month’s topic or anything else related to the Soquel Creek Water District feel free to contact Melanie Mow Schumacher or Rebecca Rubin at outreach@soquelcreekwater.org or 831-4758501 and visit www.soquelcreekwater.org/

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 27

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thursday January 16 JANUARY BREAKFAST MEETING 7:30 am - 9:00 am, Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos Join us for the first breakfast meeting of the new year with 2nd District Supervisor Zach Friend.

Bring your promotional materials to network with other attendees.

Cost: $25 members, $30 general Visit www.seacliffinn.com for more information.

Thursday February 13 FEBRUARY BREAKFAST MEETING 7:30 am - 9:00 am, Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos Join us for our February Breakfast Meeting and come hear about all the new and excited things that are happening at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Bring your promotional materials to network with other attendees.

Cost: $25 members, $30 general Visit www.seacliffinn.com for more information.

Tuesday February 25 APTOS HISTORY MUSEUM, “MARDI GRAS” PARTY AND FUNDRAISER 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm, Best Western Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos Laissez les bons Temps Rouler! Let the good times roll at the Annual History Fundraiser at Best Western Seacliff Inn. Come in fun “Mardi Gras” style, enjoy fabulous appetizers, live music, a no-host bar, silent auction with unique items, and prizes for the best dressed! Proceeds benefit the Aptos History Museum.

Cost: $35 general, $30 museum members. Sponsorships Available.

Visit http://aptoschamber.com/events/ or contact the chamber for details.

Saturday February 1, 2020 A ROARING ‘20S GALA 5 – 10:30 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds The Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2020 Annual Awards. The honorees will be presented their awards at the Annual Dinner on Saturday, February 1, 2020, at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds.

Tickets will be available on Eventbrite and through the Chamber soon!

Awards recipients include Harold Hyde, Bob Culbertson, Barbie Gomez, K&D Landscaping, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Corrallitos Lumberjack Breakfast.

Visit https://pajarovalleychamber.com for more information.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE MONTEREY SYMPHONY The Monterey Symphony is seeking volunteers. If you love music and want to be involved, please call (831) 646-8511 or visit www.montereysymphony.org for more info.

ONGOING EVENTS Daily SANTA CRUZ ‘USED’ BOOKSHOP 10 am- 3 pm 2710 Chanticleer Ave. Santa Cruz Grey Bears: Every Monday and Friday is $10a-bag book sale. Fill up a shopping bag with books for only $10! Thousands of titles for $1.50 or less: cookbooks, gardening, sci-fi, mysteries, classics and all sorts of fiction and nonfiction.

Non-profit Grey Bears has served our community for 45 years. Grey Bears provides recycling services and accepts books and other donations for our thrift stores.

Proceeds benefit our Brown Bag Program, distributing nutritious food to 3,900 seniors every week.

Weekdays CASA ORIENTATIONS TO BECOME ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN CASA empowers volunteers to directly influence life-changing decisions affecting children in foster care. Court appointed special advocates are everyday people that, with just a few hours a week can have a lifetime of impact for a child who has been abused or neglected.

More info www.casaofsantacruz.org or call 831-761-2956 x102 Second Mondays COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS OF SANTA CRUZ 7-8:30 p.m., Quaker Meeting House, 225 Rooney St. Santa Cruz Parents of a child who died at any age, from any cause, any length of time ago, are invited to join The Compassionate Friends of SC for our monthly grief support meeting. Opening circle followed by smaller connection groups.

Grief materials available. Bereaved grandparents and adult siblings are also welcome. Non-religious.

Visit www.tcfsantacruz.com or call 831.332.9893 for more information.

Mondays & Tuesdays WOMENCARE ARM-IN-ARM 12:30 - 2 p.m.

WomenCARE ARM-in-ARM support group for women with advanced, recurrent and metastatic cancers. Meets weekly Mondays & Tuesdays, with a separate meeting every First and Third Tuesday every month.

Registration required. Call 457-2273 for more information and to register. No cost to attend. www.womencaresantacruz.org Tuesdays OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS MEETING 7 - 8 pm, Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo, 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos Do you have a proble m with compulsive over- or undereating? Anorexia? Bulimia? Compulsive exercising?

You are not alone. Drop into a free, friendly OA 12-Step meeting with the solution. All are welcome!

28 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

For information on other meetings in Santa Cruz County: www. This statewide group of retired men invites you to be santacruzoa.org/meetings our guest at our monthly luncheon. You’ll meet kindred spirits, have a fine lunch and learn something new from WRITING/DISCUSSION MEETING a top notch guest speaker.

Cost: $18. RSVP at 479-7096 6:30-7:30 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church, Gazebo Room, 10707 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 (At Hwy One and Second and Fourth Wednesdays Freedom Blvd) Do you have a problem with food? Please check out our WELLNESS ON THE CANCER JOURNEY free, friendly 12-Step support group with the solution. 11-12:30 pm, Old Soquel Plaza All teens and adults welcome!

Learn how to safely support your body and emotions For current times and locations of other meetings: www. through the journey of Cancer — from diagnosis to santacruzoa.org/meetings. Or call our Hotline at (831) softening the impact of chemo, radiation, and recovering 429-7906. well from surgery. We’ll address nausea, low energy, weakness, digestion, immune support, grief, stress and BINGO more. Feel free to bring your partner or care team to this 6:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Elks Lodge, 150 Jewell St. free class. Please come fed; water is available.

BINGO EVERY TUESDAY. Buy-in begins at $21. The Limited Seats. Please register all attendees on Eventbrite — Snack Bar is open with goodies and dinner specials.

Wellness on the Cancer Journey or call 831-254-3270 to RSVP. Address given upon registration receipt.

BUSINESS DEBTORS ANONYMOUS ADHD SUPPORT GROUP 5:15-6:30pm, Calvary Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 532 6:30-8 p.m., Aptos Fire Station, 6934 Soquel Drive, Aptos Center Street, Santa Cruz.

We specifically focus on recovering from debting on The Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay Branch of CHADD hosts one’s business. monthly support group meetings for anyone who would like to learn more about ADHD or has questions or For more information: 831-425-3272. concerns. Come share with those who understand.

Second Wednesdays’ meeting is for parents of Tuesdays & Wednesdays children, teens, and young adults with ADHD. The group SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUPS Monarch Services offers a safe space to meet other sur- for adults with ADHD, spouses, partners of someone vivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human with ADHD meets fourth Wednesdays of every month. trafficking survivors, and to listen or share experiences. Judy Brenis: jbbrenis@comcast.net, or call 831-818-9619.

Childcare provided on site.

Last Wednesdays Each Month Spanish – Tuesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Servicios MAGICIANS’ CLUB Monarca, 233 E. Lake Avenue, Watsonville (831) 722-4532 7 p.m., Antonelli Club Room, 2655 Brommer St., Santa Cruz English – Wednesdays 6:00-7:30 p.m. Monarch Attention Magic Lovers! Our new Magicians’ Club meets Services, 1590 Seabright Avenue, SC (831) 425-4030 on the last Wed. of every month at 7pm in the club room at the Antonelli Mobile Home Park. If you do magic or For more information, visit www.monarchscc.org want to get started in this fun hobby, join us.

Tuesdays & Thursdays Questions? Call Jim at 685-3829 FREE PILATES CLASSES AT TEMPLE BETH EL SANTA CRUZ COUNTY PROSTATE CANCER 10 a.m., Temple Beth El, 3055 Porter Gulch Rd., Aptos Please join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am in SUPPORT GROUP 7-9 p.m., Katz Cancer Resource Center, 3150 Mission Dr the social hall at Temple Beth El in Aptos (3055 Porter Gulch Rd) for a lively and challenging 60 minute Pilates Santa Cruz County Prostate Cancer Support Group has been an active group for over 20 years in the community.

Strength Class. The classes are free and everybody is First meeting of 2018 will be February 28th. welcome. Donation are welcome.

For more information https://www.tbeaptos.org Thursdays FRIENDSHIP PUT TO MUSIC! Wednesdays 6:30 p.m., New Hall, La Selva Beach Club House, 3124 Estrella Ave. ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION Classes every Thursday night. For more info call Sue 1st & 3rd Wednesdays: 5:30-7 p.m.

Harris or Don Benson (831) 726-7053 or email at 2nd & 4th Wednesdays: 2-3:30 p.m. caller4u@att.net Alzheimer’s Association, 550 Water Street, Ste L2, SC If you have a family member who has been LUCKY STEPPERS MODERN SQUARE DANCE diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related 6:30 pm, La Selva Beach Clubhouse, 314 Estrella Ave., La dementia, a caregiver support group can offer you an opportunity to find out more about available com- Selva Beach, CA 95076 It’s fun and easy to do! Friendship put to music; family munity resources, learn from others who are going friendly. Class takes place every Thursday Night at our through similar experiences, and obtain additional new home in La Selva Beach! (Take Mar Monte off of educational materials.

Our evening Santa Cruz caregiver support group meets Hwy 1, turns into Playa Blvd., turn right on Estrella) on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month, and our For more information, contact Sue Harris or Don Benson at (831) 726-7053 or e-mail at caller4u@att.net. afternoon Santa Cruz caregiver support group meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. No fee.

SAN LORENZO COMMUNITY Open to family members.

For more information about this and other support groups in BAND PRACTICE SESSIONS 7:30-9 p.m., San Lorenzo Valley High School Band Room (F-1) the area, please call 800.272.3900 The San Lorenzo Valley Community Band meets every Thursday at SLV High School. Dues are $30 a Second Wednesdays semester.

SANTA CRUZ SONS IN RETIREMENT You must read music.

MONTHLY MEETING Call Teresa at 336-8637.

Noon, Elks Lodge at 150 Jewell St.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR easy-to-understand format, with up-to-date photos, video, and discussion.

Science Sunday does not meet in December. For more info visit seymourcenter.ucsc.edu

ONGOING EVENTS CONT. Second and Fourth Thursdays CABRILLO HOST LIONS CLUB MEETINGS 6:30 p.m., Aptos Village Park, 100 Aptos Creek Road.

Want to make a difference in our community? Join the Cabrillo Lions Club twice every month and see what you can do to help in Santa Cruz County.

Please RSVP cabrillolions@gmail.com Fridays NAR-ANON SCOTTS VALLEY 6:30 p.m., Camp Recovery Center (Bison Center Room), 3192 Glen Canyon Road, Scotts Valley.

Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to join. Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, who are going through similar problems, talk about how they cope and find recovery.

To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT 12-1 pm, Hospice of Santa Cruz County, two locations: 940 Disc Dr., SV • 85 Nielson St., Watsonville Hospice of Santa Cruz County is offering a drop-in grief support group for adults grieving the death of a family member or a friend. This group is a place where you can share stories, learn tools for coping, and receive support from people who care.

For more information, please call (831) 430-3000. Preregistration is required.

First Fridays each month FIRST FRIDAY ART TOUR The First Friday Art Tour is a Santa Cruz Institute of Contemporary Arts event, managed in conjunction with the participating art venues. The event takes place year-round and illuminates some of the most talented local artists from local galleries.

To find out where to participate in a First Friday art tour, visit firstfridaysantacruz.com (Most galleries are open 12-9 pm for First Friday viewings.)

DATED EVENTS Saturday January 4 ORIGAMI CLUB 1 – 3 p.m., Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos Branch, 7695 Soquel Drive Calling Origami enthusiasts of all ages! Join our monthly get together to make beautiful creations in this ancient oriental art of paper folding. We will also demonstrate more contemporary arts of book folding and 3-D modular origami. Origami Club meets on the first Saturday of each month.

Visit www.santacruzpl.org for more information.

YOUNG LAGOON RESERVE TOUR Sunday January 12 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Seymour Marine Discovery Center, 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz This 90-minute, behind-the-scenes hiking tour takes visitors into Younger Lagoon Reserve adjacent to the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System, Younger Lagoon Reserve contains diverse coastal habitat and is home to birds of prey, migrating sea birds, bobcats, and other wildlife. Come and see what scientists are doing to track local mammals, restore native habitat, and learn about the workings of one of California’s rare coastal lagoons. Younger Lagoon Reserve tours are free and open to the public.

Space is limited to 14 participants. Advance reservations highly recommended. Tours are best suited for children 10 years of age and older. Participants must be physically able to walk up and down steep inclines.

Water and weather protection is strongly suggested. Parking fees on Thursdays.

Visit https://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/visit/behind-the-scenes-tours/ for more information.

For questions, please contact Gary at (831)801-9578 or Kristin RECOVERING COUPLES ANONYMOUS MEETING at (831)345-6515 10:30 a.m.–noon, Sutter Maternity, 2900 Chanticleer Ave, SC RCA is a 12 step group for couples. Our primary SANTA CRUZ TENNIS CLUB purpose is to stay committed in loving and intimate relationships and to help other couples achieve freedom 9 a.m., Soquel High School Tennis Courts from dysfunctional relationships. All couples are The nonprofit Santa Cruz Tennis Club meets every welcome whether married or partnered. Some of us Saturday morning at the Soquel High School courts are new in our coupleships and seek to build intimacy beginning at 9:00 am. We play doubles and mixed together. We have all found help in Recovering Couples doubles, mostly at an intermediate level, and switch Anonymous. around the players every 45 minutes.

For more information visit our website: https://santacruzrca.org Balls are provided. $2 for first time visitors. or email us at rcasantacruz@yahoo.com Second Saturdays Each Month FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH BIBLE STUDY 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Peace United Church of Christ at 900 2ND SATURDAY ON THE FARM 9:45 a.m: Bible Study • 11 a.m.: Worship 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Ag History Project Center at the Santa Cruz High Street, Santa Cruz 7565 Sunset Way, Aptos County Fairgrounds Curious about Shakespeare? The Friday Shakespeare First Baptist Church of Aptos welcomes you to join their Club members discuss the life, times, and influence of Join us every 2nd Saturday on the Farm for free bible study and worship every Sunday. family activities. Each month we select a new William Shakespeare.

Call (831) 688-5842 for more info theme to highlight historical agriculture with For information, call 831-684-2832, or go to friday shakegames, activities, and demonstrations that relate. speare.org or facebook.com/fridayshakespeare.

First Sunday of Every Month We often have guest appearances from farm SANTA CRUZ DINNER CLUB EVENT animals like llamas, draft horses, sheep, goats, FRIDAY SHAKESPEARE CLUB chickens, rabbits, and more! You are sure to find 5 p.m., various member homes throughout county OF SANTA CRUZ something fun and entertaining for the whole Love to cook, entertain and socialize? Our dinner club 10 am - noon, Peace United Church, 909 High Street events will be held in several homes throughout Santa This is the oldest women’s club in Santa Cruz. The club family.

Check our website and Facebook page for more details. FREE Cruz County where members enjoy gourmet meals, fine meets to study the life, works and times of William wine and conversation. Joining the club provides a great Shakespeare. Members share group readings and opportunity to cook, to entertain, and to meet locals that insights, discuss history, and universal themes found in Sundays share your interests. his plays and writings.

NAR-ANON SANTA CRUZ For more information please call 831-684-2832 6:30 p.m., Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center (Sutter Room), Learn more about the SC Dinner Club and the fun we have by contacting Rhonda Mills at info@SantaCruz DinnerClub.com 2900 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz Saturdays Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families PILLS ANONYMOUS (PA) and friends of addicts. There are no dues or fees to Third Sunday of Every Month SCIENCE SUNDAY 8 a.m., Sutter Hospital, 2025 Soquel Ave join. Just come to a meeting. You will hear others, The purpose of PA is to provide a safe, secure, and who are going through similar problems, talk about Starts at 1 p.m., 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, 95060 Seymour Marine Discovery Center presents a public supportive place for people who are addicted to pills how they cope and find recovery. who want to get off of them. PA is offered all over the To locate additional times and locations of meetings, please go lecture from a marine scientist the third Sunday of every month. Topics are presented in an entertaining and world. to our website at www.nar-anon.org.

ADULT ARTS & CRAFTS WORKSHOP 2 – 4 p.m., Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Scotts Valley Branch, 251 Kings Village Road.

Printmaking without a Press: In this class attendees will learn how to use gel plates to create a template, make plates at home for future use, and transfer ink to paper using the handmade plate.

Every month we bring in a different artist to teach their craft to you at no cost. Hone your skills at something you already know how to do or learn an entirely new art style.

Registration is required due to small class sizes. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Scotts Valley Library.

Visit www.santacruzpl.org for more information.

Saturday January 18 WHAT THEY WORE 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park, 144 School Street, Santa Cruz Color, cloth and cut-the clothing worn by the people in the Mission was not all about style-It was about identity, status, and different roles in the community. We will demonstrate the apparel you may have seen here in the 19th century, and learn about what the clothing meant to the people who wore it.

Free event. Event made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks. Visit http://www.parks. ca.gov/?page_id=548 for more information.

Saturday January 25 FAMILY LITERACY FUN DAY 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Downtown Branch, 224 Church St., Santa Cruz In honor of Positive Parenting Awareness Month, Triple P Santa Cruz and the Santa Cruz Public Libraries are co-hosting this free Family Literacy Fun Day. Stop by for arts and crafts, story time with the librarians, fun activities and information about the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program and other local services for children and families.

Participate in activities for a chance to win prizes!

Visit www.santacruzpl.org for more information.

Saturday February 1 LIGHT IT UP BLUE GALA 5 p.m., Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Sunroom, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz Join us for a night of glamour and dancing at our annual fund raiser celebrating the efforts of Autism Family Network Santa Cruz. Your reservations will provide a buffet dinner and allow participation in raffles, a silent auction and plenty of dancing with DJ entertainment. Group reservations recommended, formal attire appreciated.

Cost: $75 per person / $45 under 12 years. $600 for event table of 8. $1000 Premier Table Sponsorship. Visit www. autismfnsc.com for tickets and more information. n

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 29

Business Guide

FEATURED COLUMNIST

Reflections on my Sixth Year as your County Supervisor

A

s I begin each new year as your County Supervisor, I like to report back in this column on some of the things we’ve accomplished because of your partnership and communication of priorities.

Here is a very small overview of what we accomplished in 2019.

••• Community Meetings n 2019, we’ve held over 75 open office hours in Aptos, Corralitos, La Selva Beach, Seascape and Watsonville and held or attended nearly 50 community and neighborhood meetings in Seacliff, La Selva, Rio Del Mar, Watsonville, Capitola and Corralitos.

In addition, I’ve written just under 50 columns in local papers and neighborhood newsletters to communicate with our district about county happenings. Additionally, we maintain a social media presence to share information about our district.

Affordable Housing and Homelessness he Board focused extensively this year on making the construction of affordable housing easier and addressing the unsheltered homeless issues in our community.

These two issues go hand-inhand as housing affordability has a strong correlation to the number of unsheltered homeless in a community.

The Board continued to reduce the burdens for constructing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

We continued a program I proposed

By Zach Friend

I

T

!

TO ADVERTISE IN THE BUSINESS GUIDE SECTION

call our offices 831.688.7549

www.tpgonlinedaily.com 30 / January 1st 2020 / Aptos Times www.tpgonlinedaily.com

that waives all County fees associated with small ADU construction and provided additional permit streamlining.

A new 57-unit affordable housing development was approved by the Board in Live Oak (which includes two health center components). For homeless funding the Board began the process toward implementing a systemwide diversion practice to reduce the number of people entering homelessness.

This includes flexible funding for who are experiencing homelessness to help them self-identify a housing solution, such as finding a shared housing situation and also working to ensure that those that are housing insecure don’t fall into homelessness in the first place.

Additionally we are looking at building capacity at emergency shelters to provide more housingfocused services and supports to increase the rate at which people leave emergency shelters for housing.

Local Roads easure D work continued this year in Rio Del Mar. La Selva and Rio Del Mar have received work with Seacliff slated for this year.

I worked at the Regional Transportation Commission to have local road funds allocated on a formula basis and away from a competitive basis.

This opened up new funding for our district and is bringing in money that we approved at the end of 2019 to go toward work in Corralitos on Varni. Corralitos, like much of our district, desperately needs road funding and this infusion for Varni will make a big difference.

Additionally, we worked on a state funding application for significant bike and pedestrian improvements on Soquel Drive between State Park and Park. We anticipate learning soon about that request and if approved will begin those improvements this year.

M

“Friend” page 31

SCCAS Featured Pet

“Friend” from page 30 Storm damage repairs have continued, but not at the pace we had hoped due to federal permitting delays. Some major needs (like upper Valencia) have received approval for funding and once final environmental permits from the state and federal government come through should be under construction this summer.

Public Safety dditional Sheriff’s deputies were hired placing more front line staff on the streets in our district.

With the passage of Measure G in November the Sheriff’s Office will be creating a new directed enforcement team with Behavioral Health staff to address individuals that are high impact (meaning they consume a lot of resources) but also refuse services.

This will allow the Sheriff’s Office to address these individuals in a new way.

As a note, overall crime rates in the unincorporated area are at some of their lowest levels compared to the last forty years.

Parks ignificant investments in our parks continued. As part of a private/public partnership new skate feature, restrooms, shade structures and more are underway at Seacliff Village Park.

With local benefactors working on matching funds we have begun the process of updating Hidden Beach Park (work is anticipated to begin in early this year).

In late 2018 and into early 2019 a new pump track opened at Pinto Lake Park becoming the first pump track in south county. While not in the district, LEO’s Haven, the county’s first all-inclusive park is expected to open in a few weeks ensuring that kids of all abilities have a safe place to play in our community.

Economic Vitality and Reserves The Board again continued to increase our reserves, something that we have done the last few years, which has led to improved bond ratings and lower borrowing costs. The reserves will also help provide some protection of services during a recession should one come in the next few years.

A

S Beautiful Rabbit Ready For A Home

M

oka (ID#A264447) came to the Shelter as a stray in November. What stands out most with this handsome guy is the color of his fur, a deep, rich brown and his light tan feet and nose area.

He is definitely accessorized appropriately! Moka is a young rabbit and volunteers report that he is a sweet guy that is starting to navigate his way in the world.

If you are ready to adopt a cool looking rabbit buddy, come meet this young rabbit today!

Moka is a 10 month old, chocolate brown, neutered male rabbit

crossword on 25 »

To adopt your new friend, visit one of the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter locations, or their website at www.scanimalshelter.org. n ••• Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter has two full-service, open-admission shelters: Santa Cruz Location (Public Entrance): 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesdays: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Watsonville Location: 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, CA 95076 Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12-1) Closed on Sunday SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182

Moving Forward he above is just a partial list of what we’ve done this year and I know there is a lot more to do on all of these issues in 2020.

We made significant progress on libraries (including securing over a million dollars in additional funding for the Aptos Library remodel and finalizing design and contracts for the La Selva Beach Branch).

The Board implemented a two-year budget and strategic plan that allows for better data collection and programmatic review of our funding and programs and much more.

This past year we estimate that as an office we received over 20,000 emails and calls from constituents and the community at large many with requests for service to our office on transportation and road issues, neighborhood public safety concerns, storm damage, environmental issues, health and human services, technology services and more. n ••• We’d love to continue to hear from you to prioritize what we do. Call us at 454-2200 or visit me in open office hours in Aptos, Corralitos, Watsonville or Seascape.

T

Year-in-Review © Statepoint Media

www.tpgonlinedaily.com Aptos Times / January 1st 2020 / 31

everything...so close to home.

FOOD & DRINK

Deer Park Wine & Spirits Deluxe Foods Panda Inn Mangiamo Pizza & Wine Bar Red Apple Cafe

Providing compassionate, customized dental care to the Aptos and Santa Cruz community

Deluxe Foods of Aptos

Supporting the Aptos community for 40 years

PERSONAL SERVICES Agape Dance Academy Aptos Academic Trainers Body in Motion Brian Del Core, DDS CVS Pharmacy Del Mar Cleaners Eye Shapes Opticians Highlights for Hair J-Bella Nails Klub Nico Laser Hair Solutions Royal Paw Spa Santa Cruz Dance Supply

Mon. thru Sat. 8am to 9pm • Sun. 8am to 8pm Peet’s Coffee Available Mon. thru Fri 6am • Sat & Sun 7am

give us a call

Implants, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic

(831) 688-3012 or visit

delcoredental.com

783 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos, CA 95003 (Located inside Deer Park Marketplace)

(831) 688-7442 www.deluxefoodsofaptos.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

Anderson & Company HOA Management Employnet Galapagos Travel PDM International Peak Accounting Services SAR Asset Mgmt. Inc. Scurich Insurance Stearns Lending Wavestaff, Inc

(831) 688-1516 www.EyeShapesAptos.com

Deer Park Marketplace #37 | Rio Del Mar/Hwy 1 Aptos | Above Deluxe Foods | Open at 10 Tuesday-Saturday

BANKS

Bank of America US Bank

deer park c e n t e r

Highway 1 & Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Aptos